A critical analysis of the utilization of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) psychotherapy with African American clients

Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapeutic intervention designed to decrease distress associated with traumatic memories. EMDR has been validated and confirmed by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) as a primary treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and has been recognized as effective by the World Health Organization and the Department of Defense. Multiple studies reflect EMDR’s capacity to heal the brain from psychological trauma; thus, clients are able to immediately experience the benefits of psychotherapy that previously took years to obtain. However, despite EMDR’s efficacy, there are minimal references to diversity, culture, or context in EMDR research and literature. EMDR protocol has no adaptations or recommendations for utilizing this approach with African American clients, promoting an antiquated one size fits all treatment orientation. Without consideration of the lived experiences of African Americans and context that includes acknowledgment of stigma, shame regarding help-seeking, and historical trauma, this lens obscures the relevance of identity, privilege, power, and inclusion in treatment. Therefore, it is imperative to critically examine how EMDR treatment can be utilized to alleviate PTSD distress within a framework of oppression. The authors utilized an anti-oppressive, Critical Race theoretical perspective to examine four case studies of African American clients who received EMDR interventions to gain insight into the unique nuances that arise during treatment. Emphasis will be placed on critiquing the treatment protocol, the positionality of the clinician, and clinical implications for future anti-oppressive practice with African American clients utilizing this model.

Journal

English

Allen Lipscomb
Aendy Ashley

Lipscomb, A., & Ashley, W. (2021). A critical analysis of the utilization of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) psychotherapy with African American clients. Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice, 7(1)