EMDR therapy as a transdiagnostic psychotherapy

Within mental health, there is a shift from a diagnosis-based system to a transdiagnostic model. In this chapter, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is proposed as a transdiagnostic intervention that can overcome challenges in the current system. A transdiagnostic model requires a unified protocol with a theoretical base applicable across psychopathologies. Adverse experiences, maladaptive cognitions, and emotional dysregulation are key etiological and maintaining factors across all mental health conditions. Accordingly, evidence suggests that EMDR therapy is an effective transdiagnostic approach, as it directly addresses these predisposing and perpetuating factors. As a transdiagnostic psychotherapy, EMDR therapy is further supported by evidence of the effective application to various populations across the life span, beyond posttraumatic stress disorder. This broader adoption could improve the prognosis for a wide range of individuals. Research investigating modifications needed for specific population groups, and the application for other health problems outside of mental health, are suggested.

Book Section

English

Sarah K. Dominguez

Dominguez, S. K. (2023, July). EMDR therapy as a tansdiagnostic psychotherapy. In Farrell, D., Schubert, S., and Kiernan, M. D. (Eds.), The Oxford handbook of EMDR (pp. C18P1–C18S7). Oxford Academic