To what extent is eye movement desensitization reprocessing psychotherapy (EMDR) different from and more efficient than prolonged exposure therapy (PE) in the treatment of PTSD?

According to DSM-V, an individual is diagnosed with PTSD when he has “experienced a traumatic event that has posed a perceived threat for life or physical integrity, followed by the development of sustain re-experiencing, avoidance, negative alterations in cognitions and mood, and negative alterations of arousal and reactivity”(McGuire, Lee, Peter, 2014). This essay examines the characteristics and causalities of this complex disorder. It focuses on the two proficient psychological therapies to treat it: Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), both under the scope of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The aim is to determine whether EMDR, a relatively new therapy, is more efficient than PE. A close analysis of both therapies and the models underlying them is conducted in order to determine the differences between them. After evaluating some case studies and direct testimonies, it is concluded with regards to treating the symptoms of PTSD, that both EMDR and PE have the same efficiency. However EMDR has additional advantages because fewer sessions are necessary to obtain the same results, the exposure to the trauma is less disturbing, and there is no homework. Most of these advantages are direct results of the bilateral stimulations. Although the mechanisms underlying them are not scientifically proved, results indicate that this therapy works, making EMDR superior to PE.

Dissertation/Thesis

English

Paloma Jacquet

Jacquet, P. (2015, May). To what extent is eye movement desensitization reprocessing psychotherapy (EMDR) different from and more efficient than prolonged exposure therapy (PE) in the treatment of PTSD? (The International School of Panama)