The effects of writing therapy in comparison to EMD/R on traumatic stress:  The relationship between hypnotizability and client expectancy to outcome

Many psychologists encourage clients to engage in journal writing to supplement individual psychotherapy. Empirical evidence supports the use of writing when targeted at traumatic memories. The most thoroughly researched writing strategy suggests that writing is most effective when it targets a specific memory along with the emotional components of that memory. Effective writing therapy is thus procedurally similar to effective exposure therapy for fear and traumatic memories. This investigation examined structured writing as a self-contained treatment by comparing it to eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and it was found to be effective.

Journal

English

Lisa K. Largo-Marsh
C. Richard Spates

Largo-Marsh, L. K., & Spates, C. R. (2002, December). The effects of writing therapy in comparison to EMD/R on traumatic stress: The relationship between hypnotizability and client expectancy to outcome. Professional Psychology: Research & Practice, 33(6), 581-586. doi:10.1037//0735-7028.33.6.581