EMDR therapy in the treatment of complex PTSD

The evolution of EMDR therapy as a comprehensive psychotherapy approach has expanded its application to clients with complex trauma presentations, including individuals with complex posttraumatic stress disorder (cPTSD). Clinical features commonly associated with complex trauma—such as affect tolerance impairments, dissociation, limited internal resources, and challenges within the therapeutic relationship—can complicate both treatment planning and reprocessing phases of EMDR therapy. This presentation examines clinical considerations relevant to working with complex trauma within an EMDR framework, with particular attention to case conceptualization, therapeutic relationship factors, and adaptations within the standard EMDR protocol. Attendees will explore how the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model informs flexible treatment planning when affect phobia, dissociation, and relational challenges are present. Emphasis is placed on understanding when and how procedural modifications may be considered within phases of EMDR therapy, while maintaining fidelity to the AIP model. The session highlights ethical and clinical decision‑making processes that support responsiveness to client needs within complex trauma treatment.

Conference

English

Michael Hase

Hase, M. (2026, April 24–25). EMDR therapy in the treatment of complex PTSD. [Conference presentation]. EMDRIA Virtual Summit 2026