The impact on eye movement and desensitization reprocessing of incomplete memory in a drug-facilitated rape: a single case study

In a drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA), the person’s level of intoxication may result in incomplete memory. This paper describes eye movement and desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR) with client-centred adaptations to address an incomplete trauma memory in a 26- year-old woman. The client was experiencing PTSD, characterised by nightmares and derealisation. Therapy followed standard EMDR procedures with three minor modifications to help the client maintain current awareness. Although the memory remained incomplete, the client-centred adaptations promoted working through of the clients’ trauma responses (e.g., disorientation, physical sensations) and a sense of competence and self-confidence were restored. At the end of reprocessing, and at follow-up, the client was no longer experiencing nightmares or derealisation and her wellbeing had improved.

Journal

English

Colbert, S. (2023, June). The impact on eye movement and desensitization reprocessing of incomplete memory in a drug-facilitated rape: a single case study. Journal of Trauma and Dissociation, 25(2), 218-231, doi:10.1080/15299732.2023.2289193