Integrating hypnosis and EMDR in the treatment of trauma and medically unexplained symptoms

Over 20 years ago the American Journal of Hypnosis published a special issue dedicated to the integration of EMDR with hypnosis. Since then there have been a handful of articles discussing how hypnotic strategies can enhance EMDR, particularly in the treatment of complex PTSD/dissociative disorders. While EMDR theorists emphasize the differences between EMDR and hypnosis, in practice there is much overlap between the two; both approaches recognize the existence of special learning states and both approaches are designed to address the dissociation associated with PTSD. Many EMDR interventions, such as float-back, future template and ego state interventions, originate from hypnosis. There are also significant advantages to integrating hypnosis into EMDR including enhanced safety and stabilization (resourcing), accessing target material, and ego-state work. Several leading authorities on the treatment of complex PTSD have recommended that EMDR therapists working with this population learn hypnosis. It is time for a re-evaluation of the relationship between EMDR and hypnosis and the role of hypnosis in EMDR. This material will be illustrated through case-histories and videos.

Conference

English

Mark Grant

Grant, M. (2023, May). Integrating hypnosis and EMDR in the treatment of trauma and medically unexplained symptoms. Pre-recorded presentation at the EMDRAA Conference, Melbourne Victoria, Australia