Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review

Children, young people, and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are known to be at risk of experiencing high rates of traumatic events. EMDR is an evidence-based psychological therapy for trauma and mental health conditions in the general population. A systematic search was conducted to find research studies using EMDR with individuals with certain NDDs across the lifespan. A total of 15 studies were included in this review, 13 of which were case studies/series. Although findings are inconclusive as to whether EMDR can be effective for individuals with NDDs, it is encouraging that all the studies included in the review reported a reduction in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. However, more robust research examining the effectiveness of EMDR for people with NDDs is needed.

Journal

English

Sara Sopena
Juliana Silva
Connie Miller
Tammy Hedderly
Caroline Van Diest

Soopena, S., Silva, J., Miller, C., Hedderly, T., & Van Diest, C. (2023). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research 17(4), 200-215.  doi:10.1891/EMDR-2023-0005