EMDR research: Where we stand, where we should go, and why we should care

The panel reviews EMDR research, explains the strengths and weaknesses of its current status, and discusses possible future research in the next 5 to 10 years. The panel begins with a discussion of the meaning of “evidence-based” designations, and related legal and ethical implications. A review of EMDR’s efficacy in the treatment of PTSD also highlights areas for future research and issues related to deviations from the standard protocol. This is followed by an overview of preliminary research evaluating EMDR’s effectiveness in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, somatic disorders, pain, substance abuse, and offender behavior. A summary of past and current research in these areas indicates opportunities for important future research. The panel concludes with a summary of the research on the effects of eye movements, in disrupting traumatic memories, enhancing physiological de-arousal, and creating psychological distance. The relevance of these findings for various proposed mechanisms in EMDR is discussed, and future research is encouraged.

Conference

English

Louise Maxfield
Nancy Smyth

Maxfield, L., & Smyth, N. (2009, August). EMDR research: Where we stand, where we should go, and why we should care. Plenary at the 14th EMDR International Association Conference, Atlanta, GA