Francine Shapiro Library ~ EMDR Bibliography

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1. 国秋汪永光王义强付素芬曹日芳 [Zhao Guo-Qiu, Wang Yong-Guang, Wang Yi-Qiang, Fu Shu-Fen, & Fang Tsao]. (2008, August). "4•28"胶济铁路交通事故伤员心理危机的干预 [Psychological intervention in the casualties of 4 · 28 train crash on the Jiao-Ji railway line]. 中華急診醫學雜誌 17卷8期 (2008/08), 800-803 [Chinese Journal of Emergency Medicine], 17(8), 800-803 .

Language: Chinese

Format: Journal

Abstract:
目的　分析淄博铁路交通事故伤员心理行为反应特点以寻找救治交通事故后患者的心理的有效方法。方法　采用心理危机结构式访谈问卷，对2008年4月28日发生的山东淄博胶济铁路重大交通事故中的226伤员进行心理状态评估，并对22名ASD患者进行眼动脱敏再加工(eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, EMDR)治疗，比较EMDR治疗前后的心理行为反应的差异。结果　有22名达到ASD（急性应激障碍）诊断标准，本次铁路交通事故中ASD的发生率为9.73%，伤员中主要以闯人、警觉性增高表现为主，并伴随着其他的负性情绪体验。女性组ASD的发生率(14.85%)高于男性组(5.60%)，P<0.05。女性组心理行为反应结果明显重于男性组(P<0.05)，EMDR能够显著改善ASD患者的闯入、警觉性增高症状(P<0.01)，但愤怒情绪没有显著改善((P=0.227))。结论　铁路交通事故后，女性比男性更容易发生ASD。EMDR可有效地解决ASD患者除愤怒以外的心理危机。

Objective: To investigate the psychological characteristics in the casualties of 4.28 train crash on the Jiao-Ji railway track and to find a effective way to relieve the psychological crisis induced by traffic accident. Method: A total of 226 casualties were assessed in respect of psychological crisis with interview questionnaire after 4.28 train track on Jiao-ji railwayine. Twenty-two casualties meeting acute stress disorder (ASD) criteria from DSM-IV were treated with EMDR. The therapeutic effects of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) on ASD were assessed. Results: The incidence of ASD was 9.73% (22 casualties). The major psychological consequences in casualties were intrusive symptoms, symptoms of hyperarousal, and negative emotional symptoms. Significant differences on gender had been found in incidence rate of ASD female 14.85% and male 5.60%, P < 0.05. The women manifested more severe psychological consequences than men in this train crash accident. Significant treatment effect was found in EMDR on ASD. EMDR can significantly improve the intrusive symptoms and symptoms of hyperarousal (P < 0.05), but can not significantly improve negative emotional symptoms (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The women showed more severe psychological consequences than men after train crash accident. EMDR was effective treatment on ASD but negative emotional symptoms.

Keywords: Accident Acute Stress Disorder ASD: Crsis Intervention Psychological Crisis Intervention Traffic Accident Train Collision Train Crashes

Accuracy Verified: Yes

2. 李元華 [Li Yuan-Hua]. (2008). 眼動在眼動減敏訊息再處理法中的療效機制探討：干擾自然眼動對回憶的影響 [The therapeutic mechanism of eye movements in EMDR: The effect of interrupting spontaneous eye movements during recollections]. 國立台灣大學心理學研究所，台灣 [National Taiwan University Graduate Institute of Psychology, Taiwan].

Language: Chinese

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
李元華眼動在眼動減敏訊息再處理法中的療效機制探討：干擾自然眼動對回憶的影響臺灣大學
本研究探討雙側眼動在眼動減敏訊息再處理法(Eye movement Desensitization and reprocessing; EMDR)中的所扮演的角色，過去研究認為雙側眼動可以降低回憶時的影像鮮明度與情緒強度。本研究除了擬再次驗證此一論點外，同時也提出進一步的假設：雙側眼動干擾了個體在回憶創傷經驗時的自然眼動，進而降低其在回憶時的影像畫面清晰度以及情緒強度。參與者為132名的修習普通心理學的台大學生。本研究操弄三種不同的眼動方式來探討不同的眼動干擾對正、負向自傳式回憶的影像鮮明程度、情緒強度以及心跳速率的影響，並且也記錄了參與者在回憶時自然眼動的方向性，即CLEMs (Conjugate Lateral Eye Movements)。本研究所操弄的眼動變項為眼動組、凝視組以及自然回憶組，眼動組又可分為水平眼動以及垂直眼動二操弄組、凝視組又可分為左凝視與右凝視二操弄組。結果顯示CLEMs的方向性在正負向回憶中是一致的，整體來說偏右向次數大於左向，此並不符合情緒側化理論或情緒右腦理論。另外，相較於非眼動組，眼動組對鮮明度與情緒強度的下降程度最大，凝視組次之，自然回憶組則有上升趨勢。在眼動組中水平或垂直眼動的操弄在鮮明度與情緒強度上並無差異，而凝視組中的右凝視操弄組對影像鮮明度以及情緒強度的下降程度較左凝視操弄組大，此結果並不支持水平雙側眼動的特別療效，也不支持情緒側化理論，而較可能支持情緒右腦理論。在負向回憶時的心跳速率指標方面，眼動組並無上升趨勢，但非眼動組則有上升趨勢出現。研究結果支持眼動干擾了個體在回憶創傷經驗時的自然眼動，進而降低其在回憶時的影像畫面清晰度以及情緒強度。本研究最後對各眼動理論做了討論以提出整合性的觀點。

This study examines the role of eye movements in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Previous studies have pointed that eye movements could decrease the vividness and emotionality during imagery. Besides replicating previous studies, this study proposes a hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Participants are 132 NTU undergraduate students enrolled in the general psychology course. This study manipulates three conditions of eye movements in order to realize the effect of different interruptions to vividness, emotionality and heart rate during positive and negative autobiographic recollections. It also records the directions of spontaneous eye movements during recall, namely CLEMs (Conjugate Lateral Eye Movements). The three conditions of the experiment are eye movement, gaze and mere imagery conditions. The eye movement condition is divided into horizontal and vertical movement groups and the gaze condition is divided into left and right gaze groups. Results show that the directions of CLEMs in positive and negative recollections are coherent, however the numbers of rightward gazes are more than leftward gazes. The valence-specific laterality hypothesis and the right hemisphere hypothesis of emotion both are not supported by the findings of CLEMs. In addition, the strongest interruption of vividness and emotionality is eye movement condition, followed by the gaze condition, while increasing in mere imagery condition. Vividness and emotionality are not significantly different between the horizontal and the vertical eye movement groups in the eye movement condition, however, the interruption of vividness and emotionality in the right gaze group is stronger than the left gaze group. According to these findings, the special effect of horizontal eye movements is not supported, neither is valence-specific laterality hypothesis. However, The right hemisphere hypothesis may be supported. In negative recollections, the heart rate does not have any trend in the eye movement condition, but increasing in gaze condition and nearly increasing in mere imagery condition. In summary, the results support the hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Lastly, the study discusses the theories of eye movements in EMDR, and proposes an integrated perspective.[Author abstract]

Keywords: Autobiographic Memory Eye Movement Valence-Specific Hypothesis

Accuracy Verified: Yes

3. 李元華 [Li YuanHua] (2008). 眼動在眼動減敏訊息再處理法中的療效機制探討：干擾自然眼動對回憶的影響 [The Therapeutic Mechanism of Eye Movements in EMDR: The effect of interrupting spontaneous eye movements during recollections]. 國立台灣大學，台灣 [National Taiwan University, Graduate Institute of PsychologyTaiwan].

Language: Chinese

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
本研究探討的作用眼球運動在眼動脫敏和再加工（EMDR的）。以往的研究指出，眼球運動能降低生動性和情感中的圖像。除了複製以前的研究，本研究提出一個假設：雙側眼球運動中斷了病人的自發性眼球運動創傷的回憶中，減少了生動性和情感性的意象。參加者為 132台大本科生參加了普通心理學課程。本研究操縱三個條件眼球運動，以實現不同的效果中斷生動，情緒和心率在正面和負面的自傳回憶。它也記錄眼球運動方向的自發召回期間，即克萊姆斯（共軛側眼動）。這三個條件的實驗是眼球運動，僅僅是圖像的目光和條件。眼動條件分為水平和垂直運動的團體和凝視條件分為左，右的目光群體。結果表明，該方向的克萊姆斯在正面和負面的回憶是一致的，但數字的右向左凝視超過凝視。價的具體偏側假說和右半球假說的情感都是不支持的調查結果克萊姆斯。此外，最強的中斷生動，情感的是眼睛的運行狀況，其次是凝視條件，而僅僅是提高圖像的條件。生動性和情緒之間沒有顯著不同的水平和垂直眼球運動團體在眼球運動狀況，但是，中斷的生動性和情緒在右凝視組強於左側凝視小組。根據這些發現，特效水平眼球運動不支持，也不是價的具體偏側假說。然而，右半球假說可能得到支持。在負的回憶，心率沒有任何的趨勢，在眼球運動的條件，但越來越多的目光幾乎增加條件和單純的意象條件。總之，結果支持這一假設：雙側眼球運動中斷了病人的自發性眼球運動創傷的回憶中，減少了生動性和情感性的意象。最後，本研究探討的理論眼球運動在EMDR的，並提出一個綜合觀點。

This study examines the role of eye movements in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Previous studies have pointed that eye movements could decrease the vividness and emotionality during imagery. Besides replicating previous studies, this study proposes a hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Participants are 132 NTU undergraduate students enrolled in the general psychology course. This study manipulates three conditions of eye movements in order to realize the effect of different interruptions to vividness, emotionality and heart rate during positive and negative autobiographic recollections. It also records the directions of spontaneous eye movements during recall, namely CLEMs (Conjugate Lateral Eye Movements). The three conditions of the experiment are eye movement, gaze and mere imagery conditions. The eye movement condition is divided into horizontal and vertical movement groups and the gaze condition is divided into left and right gaze groups. Results show that the directions of CLEMs in positive and negative recollections are coherent, however the numbers of rightward gazes are more than leftward gazes. The valence-specific laterality hypothesis and the right hemisphere hypothesis of emotion both are not supported by the findings of CLEMs. In addition, the strongest interruption of vividness and emotionality is eye movement condition, followed by the gaze condition, while increasing in mere imagery condition. Vividness and emotionality are not significantly different between the horizontal and the vertical eye movement groups in the eye movement condition, however, the interruption of vividness and emotionality in the right gaze group is stronger than the left gaze group. According to these findings, the special effect of horizontal eye movements is not supported, neither is valence-specific laterality hypothesis. However, The right hemisphere hypothesis may be supported. In negative recollections, the heart rate does not have any trend in the eye movement condition, but increasing in gaze condition and nearly increasing in mere imagery condition. In summary, the results support the hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Lastly, the study discusses the theories of eye movements in EMDR, and proposes an integrated perspective.

Keywords: Autobiographic Memory Valence-Specific Hypothesis

Accuracy Verified: Yes

4. 李元華, 張素凰 [Li Yuan-Hua, & Chang Sue Hwang] (2008). 眼動在眼動減敏訊息再處理法中的療效機制探討：干擾自然 [The therapeutic mechanism of eye movements in EMDR: the effect of interrupting spontaneous eye movements during recollections]. 臺灣大學:心理學研究所 [Taiwan: Institute of Psychology].

Language: Chinese

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
本研究探討雙側眼動在眼動減敏訊息再處理法(Eye movement Desensitization and reprocessing; EMDR)中的所扮演的角色，過去研究認為雙側眼動可以降低回憶時的影像鮮明度與情緒強度。本研究除了擬再次驗證此一論點外，同時也提出進一步的假設：雙側眼動干擾了個體在回憶創傷經驗時的自然眼動，進而降低其在回憶時的影像畫面清晰度以及情緒強度。參與者為132 名的修習普通心理學的台大學生。本研究操弄三種不同的眼動方式來探討不同的眼動干擾對正、負向自傳式回憶的影像鮮明程度、情緒強度以及心跳速率的影響，並且也記錄了參與者在回憶時自然眼動的方向性，即CLEMs (Conjugate Lateral Eye Movements)。本研究所操弄的眼動變項為眼動組、凝視組以及自然回憶組，眼動組又可分為水平眼動以及垂直眼動二操弄組、凝視組又可分為左凝視與右凝視二操弄組。結果顯示CLEMs 的方向性在正負向回憶中是一致的，整體來說偏右向次數大於左向，此並不符合情緒側化理論或情緒右腦理論。另外，相較於非眼動組，眼動組對鮮明度與情緒強度的下降程度最大，凝視組次之，自然回憶組則有上升趨勢。在眼動組中水平或垂直眼動的操弄在鮮明度與情緒強度上並無差異，而凝視組中的右凝視操弄組對影像鮮明度以及情緒強度的下降程度較左凝視操弄組大，此結果並不支持水平雙側眼動的特別療效，也不支持情緒側化理論，而較可能支持情緒右腦理論。在負向回憶時的心跳速率指標方面，眼動組並無上升趨勢，但非眼動組則有上升趨勢出現。研究結果支持眼動干擾了個體在回憶創傷經驗時的自然眼動，進而降低其在回憶時的影像畫面清晰度以及情緒強度。本研究最後對各眼動理論做了討論以提出整合性的觀點。

This study examines the role of eye movements in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Previous studies have pointed that eye movements could decrease the vividness and emotionality during imagery. Besides replicating previous studies, this study proposes a hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Participants are 132 NTU undergraduate students enrolled in the general psychology course. This study manipulates three conditions of eye movements in order to realize the effect of different interruptions to vividness, emotionality and heart rate during positive and negative autobiographic recollections. It also records the directions of spontaneous eye movements during recall, namely CLEMs (Conjugate Lateral Eye Movements). The three conditions of the experiment are eye movement, gaze and mere imagery conditions. The eye movement condition is divided into horizontal and vertical movement groups and the gaze condition is divided into left and right gaze groups. Results show that the directions of CLEMs in positive and negative recollections are coherent, however the numbers of rightward gazes are more than leftward gazes. The valence-specific laterality hypothesis and the right hemisphere hypothesis of emotion both are not supported by the findings of CLEMs. In addition, the strongest interruption of vividness and emotionality is eye movement condition, followed by the gaze condition, while increasing in mere imagery condition. Vividness and emotionality are not significantly different between the horizontal and the vertical eye movement groups in the eye movement condition, however, the interruption of vividness and emotionality in the right gaze group is stronger than the left gaze group. According to these findings, the special effect of horizontal eye movements is not supported, neither is valence-specific laterality hypothesis. However, The right hemisphere hypothesis may be supported. In negative recollections, the heart rate does not have any trend in the eye movement condition, but increasing in gaze condition and nearly increasing in mere imagery condition. In summary, the results support the hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Lastly, the study discusses the theories of eye movements in EMDR, and proposes an integrated perspective.This study examines the role of eye movements in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Previous studies have pointed that eye movements could decrease the vividness and emotionality during imagery. Besides replicating previous studies, this study proposes a hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Participants are 132 NTU undergraduate students enrolled in the general psychology course. This study manipulates three conditions of eye movements in order to realize the effect of different interruptions to vividness, emotionality and heart rate during positive and negative autobiographic recollections. It also records the directions of spontaneous eye movements during recall, namely CLEMs (Conjugate Lateral Eye Movements). The three conditions of the experiment are eye movement, gaze and mere imagery conditions. The eye movement condition is divided into horizontal and vertical movement groups and the gaze condition is divided into left and right gaze groups. Results show that the directions of CLEMs in positive and negative recollections are coherent, however the numbers of rightward gazes are more than leftward gazes. The valence-specific laterality hypothesis and the right hemisphere hypothesis of emotion both are not supported by the findings of CLEMs. In addition, the strongest interruption of vividness and emotionality is eye movement condition, followed by the gaze condition, while increasing in mere imagery condition. Vividness and emotionality are not significantly different between the horizontal and the vertical eye movement groups in the eye movement condition, however, the interruption of vividness and emotionality in the right gaze group is stronger than the left gaze group. According to these findings, the special effect of horizontal eye movements is not supported, neither is valence-specific laterality hypothesis. However, The right hemisphere hypothesis may be supported. In negative recollections, the heart rate does not have any trend in the eye movement condition, but increasing in gaze condition and nearly increasing in mere imagery condition. In summary, the results support the hypothesis: bilateral eye movements interrupt the patients’ spontaneous eye movements during traumatic recollections and decrease the vividness and emotionality of imagery. Lastly, the study discusses the theories of eye movements in EMDR, and proposes an integrated perspective.

Keywords: autobiographic Memory Eye Movements Valence-Specific Hypothesis

Accuracy Verified: Yes

5. 陳致豪 [Chen Chih-Hao]. (2004). 眼動減敏訊息再處理法中「眼動」與「正向認知」成分對於懼蟑症之療效眼動減敏訊息再處理法中「眼動」與「正向認知」成分對於懼蟑症之療效 [The efficacy of eye movement and positive cognition components of EMDR in the treatment of cockroach phobia]. 國立台灣大學心理學研究所 [National Taiwan University Graduate Institute of Psychology].

Language: Chinese

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
陳致豪眼動減敏訊息再處理法中「眼動」與「正向認知」成分對於懼蟑症之療效
眼動減敏訊息再處理法（Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing; EMDR）是Shapiro（1989a, 1989b）所發展的一套治療方法，最早被用來治療創傷後壓力疾患（post traumatic stress disorder; PTSD，後來也被認為對其他心理疾患具有療效。雖然Shapiro認為眼動程序可以加速訊息處理並降低個案的焦慮與困擾，不同治療變項的療效仍待由控制性研究法進一步釐清。本研究以部分減除（dismantling）的方式，運用實驗法來探討「眼動」與「正向認知」對懼蟑症治療效果的影響。藉2（有眼動、無眼動）× 2（正向認知、減敏延長）受試者間設計，探討單一治療次對懼蟑症者的治療效果。受試者為自大樣本篩選出的40名懼怕蟑螂的大學女生。研究結果顯示治療程序的主要效果顯著，四組的療效相當。在治療階段中，受試者主觀害怕程度、對負向認知之相信程度皆呈顯著的線性下降；對正向認知之相信程度則僅眼動組呈顯著線性上升。雖然生理指標（心跳速率）在前測時顯著較基線時高，而在後測時回復至接近基線水準，但就微觀歷程分析，治療階段中各組之心跳速率變化為，在第一階段內逐漸上升，階段間休息時心跳速率略為降低，在第二階段開始又逐漸上升。本研究結果亦顯示，就微觀的治療歷程（micro process）而言，在正向認知的治療情境中，僅眼動組的受試者對正向認知之相信程度逐漸提高。在治療效果上，雖曝露法（exposure）本身便具有療效；但眼動能夠進一步促進受試者第二階段中正向認知的相信程度（可能藉由促進訊息處理）。就巨觀的療效指標而言，雖然單一治療次在各組皆有顯著的療效，但是正向認知對療效的影響無組別差異，該療效指標可能需要較多的治療次始能反映出來。本研究亦就研究結果所顯示的意義與未來的研究方向提出討論

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR; Shapiro, 1989a, 1989b) was initially used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and later has been thought to be effective in treating other psychological disorders also. Shapiro suggested that eye movement procedure could accelerate information processing and further reduced the client’s anxiety and disturbance. However, psychotherapy evaluation regarding crucial therapeutic parameters awaits elucidation. This dismantling study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of eye movement and positive cognition on phobias. Specifically, via a 2×2 between subject design, with “eye movement/non eye movement” and “treatment process” being two independent variables, a total of 40 female university students with fear of cockroaches were screened and recruited from introductory psychology class to explore the treatment effect of those two components. The results showed that, according to macro therapeutic indices, the effect of therapy was significant, and was not significantly different among groups. As to micro treatment process, while the participants’ SUDs decreased linearly, and so did the negative cognition VOCs, the positive cognition VOCs increased linearly only for the eye movement condition. In addition, while for macro index, the physical index, heart rate, was significantly higher at pre-test than at baseline and returned to baseline at post-test, the process measures indicated that heart rate increased during the first treatment stage, returned during rest period, and increased again during the second treatment stage. According to the micro process, the results also suggested that when presented with positive cognition participants’ VOCs of positive cognitions increased only for the eye movement condition. As to the therapeutic effects, although exposure by itself might be effective, eye movement could further promote participants’ VOCs of positive cognitions at the second treatment stage, probably by facilitating information processing. Nonetheless, regarding macro therapeutic index, there were equal therapeutic effects across groups within one-session therapy, and the superiority of positive cognition installation remained obscure, which implied that to become obvious more sessions might be called for. The implications of the present results and further research possibilities are postulated.

Keywords: Cockroach Phobia Eye Movement Phobia Positive Cognition Psychotherapy

Accuracy Verified: Yes

6. 陳致豪張素凰 [Chen Zhi-Hao, & Chang Sue-Hwang]. (2004年9月). 眼動減敏訊息再處理法中「眼動」與「正向認知」成分對於懼蟑症之療效國立台灣 [The efficacy of eye movement and positive cognition components of EMDR in the treatment of cockroach phobias]. 紙發表於第43屆年會台灣心理學會會議上，研討會焦慮症：心理素質，調解員和治療問題。政治大學，台北，台灣 [Presentation at the 43rd Annual Conferences on Taiwan Psychological Association, Symposium on Anxiety Disorders: Diatheses, Mediators and Therapeutic Implications. Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan].

Language: Chinese

Format: Conference

Abstract:
眼動減敏訊息再處理法（Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing; EMDR）是Shapiro（1989a, 1989b）所發展的一套治療方法，最早被用來治療創傷後壓力疾患（post traumatic stress disorder; PTSD，後來也被認為對其他心理疾患具有療效。雖然Shapiro 認為眼動程序可以加速訊息處理並降低個案的焦慮與困擾，不同治療變項的療效仍待由控制性研究法進一步釐清。本研究以部分減除（dismantling）的方式，運用實驗法來探討「眼動」與「正向認知」對懼蟑症治療效果的影響。藉2（有眼動、無眼動）× 2（正向認知、減敏延長）受試者間設計，探討單一治療次對懼蟑症者的治療效果。受試者為自大樣本篩選出的40 名懼怕蟑螂的大學女生。研究結果顯示治療程序的主要效果顯著，四組的療效相當。在治療階段中，受試者主觀害怕程度、對負向認知之相信程度皆呈顯著的線性下降；對正向認知之相信程度則僅眼動組呈顯著線性上升。雖然生理指標（心跳速率）在前測時顯著較基線時高，而在後測時回復至接近基線水準，但就微觀歷程分析，治療階段中各組之心跳速率變化為，在第一階段內逐漸上升，階段間休息時心跳速率略為降低，在第二階段開始又逐漸上升。本研究結果亦顯示，就微觀的治療歷程（micro process）而言，在正向認知的治療情境中，僅眼動組的受試者對正向認知之相信程度逐漸提高。在治療效果上，雖曝露法（exposure）本身便具有療效；但眼動能夠進一步促進受試者第二階段中正向認知的相信程度（可能藉由促進訊息處理）。就巨觀的療效指標而言，雖然單一治療次在各組皆有顯著的療效，但是正向認知對療效的影響無組別差異，該療效指標可能需要較多的治療次始能反映出來。本研究亦就研究結果所顯示的意義與未來的研究方向提出討論。

[Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR; Shapiro, 1989a, 1989b) was initially used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and later has been thought to be effective in treating other psychological disorders also. Shapiro suggested that eye movement procedure could accelerate information processing and further reduced the client’s anxiety and disturbance. However, psychotherapy evaluation regarding crucial therapeutic parameters awaits elucidation. This dismantling study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of eye movement and positive cognition on phobias. Specifically, via a 2×2 between subject design, with “eye movement/non eye movement” and “treatment process” being two independent variables, a total of 40 female university students with fear of cockroaches were screened and recruited from introductory psychology class to explore the treatment effect of those two components. The results showed that, according to macro therapeutic indices, the effect of therapy was significant, and was not significantly different among groups. As to micro treatment process, while the participants’ SUDs decreased linearly, and so did the negative cognition VOCs, the positive cognition VOCs increased linearly only for the eye movement condition. In addition, while for macro index, the physical index, heart rate, was significantly higher at pre-test than at baseline and returned to baseline at post-test, the process measures indicated that heart rate increased during the first treatment stage, returned during rest period, and increased again during the second treatment stage. According to the micro process, the results also suggested that when presented with positive cognition participants’ VOCs of positive cognitions increased only for the eye movement condition. As to the therapeutic effects, although exposure by itself might be effective, eye movement could further promote participants’ VOCs of positive cognitions at the second treatment stage, probably by facilitating information processing. Nonetheless, regarding macro therapeutic index, there were equal therapeutic effects across groups within one-session therapy, and the superiority of positive cognition installation remained obscure, which implied that to become obvious more sessions might be called for. The implications of the present results and further research possibilities are postulated.]

Keywords: Cockroach Phobia Eye Movement Phobia Positive Cognition Psychotherapy Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

7. 赵国秋汪永光王义强付素芬唐济生曹日芳 [Zhao Guoqiu, Wang Yongguang, Wang Yiqiang, FU Shufen, Tang Jisheng, & Cao Rifang] (发表时间). 胶济铁路交通事故伤员心理危机干预结果分析 [The Analysis of Intervention for Casualties in the Accident on Jiaoji Railway on April 28]. 中国首届心理咨询师大会暨心理危机干预研讨会论文集.

Language: Chinese

Format: Conference

Abstract:
对22名ASD患者进行EMDR治疗，比较EMDR治疗前后的心理行为反应的差异。结果：有22名达到ASD（急性应激障碍）诊断标准，ASD发生率为9.73%，伤员中主要以闯入、警觉性增高表现为主，并伴随着其它的负性情绪体验。女性组心理行为反应结果明显重于男性组，女性组ASD...

(Based on the treatment of EMDR for 22 ASD patients, the comparison of psychological and behavior reaction between and after the treatment is shown. Results: there were 22 patients who reached to the diagnosis standard of ASD (Acute Stress Disorder). The incident rate is 9.73%. The major reaction is the increase of intrusive thoughts and alertness, with some other negative emotional experiences. The result of the psychological and behavior reaction of the female group is evidently stronger than that of the male group. The female group…)

Keywords: Acute Stress Disorder ASD Jiaoji Railway

Accuracy Verified: Yes

8. Tarrier, N., Liversidge, T., & Gregg, L. (2006, November). The acceptability and preference for the psychological treatment for PTSD. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 44(11), 1643-1656. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2005.11.012.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
The acceptability and preference of psychological treatments is important in understanding patient treatment seeking, choice, engagement and attrition and possibly treatment response in health care. The acceptability of, and preference for, 14 different types of psychological treatment for PTSD were investigated in a student population through invitation to participate in a web-based survey. Respondents were asked to rate each treatment on 10 scales and to rank the treatments in order of preference. Respondents were also asked whether they would seek treatment themselves, recommend treatment to friends and family, feel stigmatised by suffering from PTSD, had any prior knowledge of the treatments and if this had been positive or negative, and whether they had a history of psychological problems or treatment. A total of 330 respondents completed the survey. A past or current history of psychological problems and treatment was surprisingly high. Almost all respondents indicated that they would seek or recommend treatment in spite of high levels of stigmatisation. Factor analysis of the 10 scales indicated two factors: Endorsement and Discomfort. Rank ordering on preference and Endorsement scores was highly consistent. The highly preferred and endorsed treatments involved cognitive therapy, exposure, or psycho-education in spite of high levels of discomfort anticipated with exposure. Treatments involving new technologies, EMDR, and psychodynamic psychotherapy received the lowest Endorsement and preference. There was a modest influence of prior knowledge of a treatment. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy Cognitive Therapy Exposure Therapy College Students Computer Assisted Psychotherapy Empirical Study Family Therapy Group Psychotherapy Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Preference Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Psychological Treatment Psychotherapeutic Processes PTSD Quantitative Study Relaxation Therapy Treatment Acceptability Virtual Reality Exposure Web-Based Survey

Accuracy Verified: Yes

9. Amano, T., Selyama, A., & Toichi M. (2012, June). The activity of the brain cortex measured by NIRS during EMDR session of phantom limb pain [La actividad del cortex cerebral medida por espectroscopía casi infrarroja (NIRS) durante una sesión de EMDR en Dolor de Miembro Fantasma]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Madrid, Spain.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
We are reporting the case of a female patient with severe chronic pain, which was successfully treated applying a phantom limb pain (PLP) protocol of the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). The patient is a seventy-‐ year-‐old female, who suffered from paralysis in the left lower limb due to an accident during an orthopedic operation for herniated disc. After the operation, she began to experience sharp pain in the paralyzed limb, and neither nerve blocks nor trials of medicine were effective for this pain. It continued for 8 years until a PLP protocol was applied. During the sessions of the protocol, her sharp pain gradually diminished and virtually disappeared at the end of the EMDR sessions. A follow-‐up interview, held three years after the sessions, confirmed no recurrence. The study was designed to examine the changes of frontal and temporal cortices in the blood flow in brain by NIRS during sessions of EMDR. During the recall of her trauma-‐related events, her heart rate and the blood flow increased in the area of the right superior temporal sulcus. Eye movement with the recall of traumatic events leads to a generalized decrease in brain blood flow. The results suggest that a PLP protocol may be an effective option for the treatment of chronic pain. It is probably because the technique, which is effective for post-‐traumatic stress disorder, can potentially dissolve traumatic pain memory. The findings on blood flow seem to suggest that EMDR is effective in treating PTSD by normalizing excessive cerebral activation, particularly in the right hemisphere, which is related to the memory of trauma.

Presentamos el caso de una mujer con dolor crónico severo tratado con éxito mediante un protocolo de desensibilización y reprocesamiento con movimientos oculares (EMDR) para dolor de miembro fantasma (DMF). Se trata de una mujer de setenta y dos años de edad que sufría una parálisis en la extremidad inferior izquierda debido a un accidente durante una intervención quirúrgica ortopédica por una hernia discal. Tras la operación, empezó a experimentar un dolor agudo en el miembro paralizado; ni los bloqueos nerviosos regionales ni las pruebas con fármacos fueron eficaces para tratar su dolor. Así siguió durante 8 años hasta la aplicación de un protocolo para el tratamiento del DMF. Durante las sesiones en las que se seguía el protocolo, el dolor agudo que sufría disminuía progresivamente y desaparición por completo al finalizar las sesiones de EMDR. Durante una entrevista de seguimiento a los tres años se confirmó la ausencia de una recurrencia del dolor. Se diseñó el estudio para examinar los cambios del flujo sanguíneo cerebral en las cortezas frontal y temporal mediante NIRS en las sesiones de EMDR. Durante el recuerdo de los eventos relacionados con el trauma, se aumentó la frecuencia cardiaca y el flujo sanguíneo en el área del sulco temporal superior derecho. Los movimientos oculares que se producen con el recuerdo de los eventos traumáticos conlleva una disminución generalizada del flujo sanguíneo al cerebro. Los resultados sugieren que un protocolo específico para DMF puede representar una alternativa efectiva para el tratamiento del dolor crónico. Probablemente se debe a que esta técnica que es efectiva en el trastorno por estrés post-‐traumático, tiene el potencial de disolver el recuerdo del dolor traumático. Los hallazgos sobre el flujo sanguíneo parecen sugerir que EMDR es efectivo en el tratamiento del TEPT al normalizar la activación cerebral excesiva, sobre todo en el hemisferio derecho, que guarda relación con el recuerdo del trauma.

Keywords: Brain Cortex NIRS Phantom Limb Pain

Accuracy Verified: Yes

10. Sack, M., Lempa, W., Steinmetz, A., Lamprecht, F., & Hofmann, A. (2008, October). Alterations in autonomic tone during trauma exposure using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) - Results of a preliminary. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 22(7), 1264-1271. doi:10.1016/j.janxdis.2008.01.007.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
EMDR combines stimuli that evoke divided attention – e.g. eye movements – with exposure to traumatic memories. Our objective was to investigate psycho-physiological correlates of EMDR during treatment sessions. A total of 55 treatment sessions from 10 patients with PTSD was monitored applying impedance cardiography. Onset of every stimulation/exposure period (n = 811) was marked and effects within and across stimulation sets on heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), pre-ejection period (PEP) and respiration rate were examined. At stimulation onsets a sharp increase of HRV and a significant decrease of HR was noticed indicating de-arousal. During ongoing stimulation, PEP and HRV decreased significantly while respiration rate significantly increased, indicating stress-related arousal. However, across entire sessions a significant decrease of psycho-physiological activity was noticed, evidenced by progressively decreasing HR and increasing HRV. These findings suggest that EMDR is associated with patterns of autonomic activity associated with substantial psycho-physiological de-arousal over time. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adults Germans Empirical Study Impedance Cardiography Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiology PSTD Quantitative Study Survivors Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

11. Sack, M. (2005, November). Alterations in autonomic tone during trauma therapy with EMDR. In S. Woodword, J. Hopper, M. Sack, R. Pitman, & D. Kaloupek (Chairs), Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia: Insights into Autonomic Function in PTSD. Symposium conducted at the 21st annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Toronto, ON.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia: Insights into Autonomic Function in PTSD: Studies of cardiac responses to trauma-related cues have defined the mainstream of laboratory research in posttraumatic stress disorder. Examinations of respiratory sinus arrhythmia now challenge the view that exaggerated sympathetic tone and reactivity provide a sufficient account of the autonomic abnormalities seen in this diagnosis.
Alterations in autonomic tone during trauma therapy with EMDR: It has been hypothesized that EDMR, by pairing stimuli that evoke divided attention with exposure to trauma memories, elicits repetitive orienting responses followed by enhanced parasympathetic tone, resulting in significant within-session psychophysiological de-arousal. We monitored 10 standard EMDR treatments for PTSD (55 sessions) with impedance cardiography. Heart rate (HR), parasympathetic tone (RMSSD), sympathetic tone (PEP), and respiration rate (RESP) were assessed. Markers were set at the onset of every stimulation/exposure period (N = 811). Effects within and across stimulation sets were examined. An orienting response, with associated sharp increase of parasympathetic tone and significant decrease of HR, was found at stimulation onsets. During ongoing stimulation, sympathetic arousal increased while parasympathetic tone decreased, responses consistent with stressrelated arousal during trauma exposure. However, across entire sessions there was a significant pattern of psychophysiological de-arousal, evidenced by progressively decreasing HR and increasing RMSSD. These findings suggest EMDR is associated with distinct patterns

Keywords: Autonomic Tone Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

12. Negadi, F., Pelissolo, A., Jouvent, R., & Allilaire, J. F. (2007, Septembre). Application de l’EMDR en sexotraumatologie: Évolution de la comorbidité psychopathologique à propos d'un cas d'agression sexuelle [EMDR applied to sexual traumatology: Evolution of psychopathological comorbidity in the case of sexual aggression]. Annales Médico-Psychologiques, Revue Psychiatrique, 165(7), 523-528. doi:10.1016/j.amp.2007.06.002.

Language: French

Format: Journal

Abstract:
L'accès thérapeutique des patients victimes d'agression sexuelle est souvent à travers une double perspective: celle du traitement de stress post-traumatique (SSPT) et d'évitement sexuel. En légère ou modérée cas de SSPT, il ya des formes complexes où la comorbidité est plus évident et le taux d'échec thérapeutique est plus important. À l'heure actuelle des méthodes de traitement actif, basé sur l'exposition, plus particulièrement EMDR (désensibilisation des mouvements oculaires et retraitement) considérée comme une thérapie brève et active, donnent de bons résultats dans le traitement de la symptomatologie traumatique. Peu d'études ont été menées sur l'évolution psychopathologique de patients ayant souffert d'agressions sexuelles et qui sont pris en charge par l'EMDR. Dans le cadre d'une étude de cas, les auteurs discutent des éléments indiquant une évolution rapide de la symptomatologie traumatique, l'évitement sexuel et de la régression de l'expression des signes de co-morbidité. [Auteur] Résumé

The therapeutic access of patients victims of sexual aggression is often through a double perspective: That of treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and of sexual avoidance. In light or moderate PTSD cases, there are complex forms in which co-morbidity is more evident and the rate of therapeutic failure is more important. At present active treatment methods based on exposure, more particularly EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) considered as a brief and active therapy, give good results in the treatment of traumatic symptomatology. Few studies have been undertaken on the psychopathological evolution of patients having suffered from sexual attacks and who are being taken care of by EMDR. Within the framework of a case study, the authors discuss elements indicating a rapid evolution of traumatic symptomatology, of sexual avoidance and of regression of the expression of the co-morbidity signs. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Brief Therapy Clinical Case Study Sexotherapy Sexual Trauma

Accuracy Verified: Yes

13. Piffaut, A. M. (2007, Juin). Apport de l'EMDR dans le traitement de l'hyperacousie, des vertiges et des acouphenes, ORL psychosomatique [EMDR in the treatment of hypercousy, vertigo, and acouphens. Psychosomatic ORL]. Présentation à la réunion annuelle de l'Association EMDR Europe, Paris, France.

Language: French

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Je voudrais partager avec vous mon bonheur de pratiquer l'EMDR et de la communication des résultats dans ma spécialité (ORL Ear Nose Throat) associée à une compétence dans phoniatrique. Je n'ai jamais réussi à guérir des patients présentant une hyperacousie douloureuse à l'aide de l'analyse transactionnelle et de la thérapie comportementale et cognitive. Ces personnes ont tendance à s'isoler, cesser de travailler, devenir ou sont socialement phobique. J'ai reçu des patients dans l'incapacité de travail. Ils sont obligés de porter un casque pour se protéger des bruits extérieurs. Leur situation est aggravée par l'acouphène, car si elles s'isoler pour se protéger contre le bruit qu'ils perçoivent encore plus leurs acouphènes.
Depuis que j'utilise l'EMDR, ces personnes ne guérir. L'autre jour, une personne qui avait souffert de l'hyperacousie pendant douze ans et même dû arrêter de travailler à cause d'elle, m'a fait écrire un document dans lequel je l'ai noté sous sa dictée qu'elle se trouva guérie. Ce certificat a été destiné à son médecin de l'entreprise afin d'éviter l'incapacité, un processus qui était en cours. Depuis, elle a pu circuler dans un train dans la zone entre deux voitures (pas loin de 100 dB) et n'a pas souffert. Un enfant, même crié à côté d'elle et elle n'a pas non plus se sentir quelque chose de désagréable. Elle est étonnée et je le suis aussi
L'objectif était de supporter le bruit intense d'une formation en passant sur un pont alors qu'elle était sous le pont. Il a été la pire situation pour elle parce que la plus intense en termes de décibels. Elle étudie plusieurs canaux dans sa mémoire jusqu'à ce qu'elle se souvenait d'un avortement horrible. Les bruits, les mots de l'équipe médicale, tous les souvenirs audience ont été poignées. C'est seulement avec l'EMDR que j'ai réussi à traiter les hyperacousie jusqu'à disparition. J'ai reçu cette personne 7 fois ¾ d'heure. Avant l'EMDR, j'ai parfois reçu jusqu'à deux ans, ces patients à la vitesse d'une session tous les deux pue et il a eu, au mieux, une amélioration de leur confort. Le bonheur de ce dernier patient était telle que j'ai eu à le partager. Depuis, elle va sur les forums de discussion pour encourager les personnes qui souffrent de ce trouble.

I would like to share with you my happiness to practice EMDR and to notice it results in my specialty ENT (Ear Nose Throat) associated to a competence in Phoniatric. I never managed to cure patients presenting a painful hyperacusis by using the transactional analysis and the behavioral and cognitive therapy. These persons tend to isolate themselves, stop working, become or are socially phobic. I received some patients in incapacity to work. They are obliged to wear a helmet to protect themselves from outside noises. Their situation is aggravated by tinnitus because if they isolate themselves to protect themselves from the noise they perceive even more their tinnitus.
Since I use EMDR, these persons do cure. The other day, one person that had been suffering of hyperacusis for twelve years and even had to stop working because of it, made me write a document where I noted under her dictation that she found herself cured. This certificate was intended for her company doctor to avoid the incapacity, a process that was in progress. Since then, she was able to circulate in a train in the zone between two cars (not far from 100 DB) and did not suffer. A child even screamed next to her and she also didn’t feel anything unpleasant. She is astonished and so am I.
The target was to bear the intense noise of a training passing on a bridge while she was under the bridge. It was the worst situation for her because the most intense in terms of decibels. She investigates several canals in her memory until she remembered a horrible abortion. The noises, the words of the medical team, all the hearing recollections were handles. It is only with EMDR that I managed to treat the hyperacusis until it disappearance. I received this person 7 times ¾ of an hour. Before the EMDR, I sometimes received up to two years these patients at the rate of a session every two reeks and it led to at best an improvement of their comfort. The happiness of this last patient was such that I had to share it. Ever since, she goes on forums of discussion to encourage the persons who suffer from this disorder.

Keywords: Hyperacusis Vertigo

Accuracy Verified: Yes

14. Weiner, M., & Mullaney, D. (2006). Are 'the basics' more important than innovation?. Addiction Professional, 4(2), 1-58.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches (BHOPB) is a residential alcoholism and drug abuse treatment facility in Lake Worth, Florida. The desire to provide the best possible treatment for our patients has led us to seek innovative treatment interventions. Examples include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for patients with symptoms of trauma and acupuncture for patients with chronic pain. Tailored interventions are also available for addicts with co-occurring chronic anxiety, unresolved anger, or grief issues. The desire to discover how well our patients have done led us to track a random sample of 90 patients for one year. Data were collected between August 2002 and December 2004. We were eager to determine an overall success rate, as well as the impact of our innovative interventions. Patients were contacted by telephone three months, six months, nine months, and one year from their date of discharge. We learned that 53% of the sample completed one year of continuous recovery. We believe these results understate patients' overall success. The essentials for treatment are discussed.

Keywords: Alcoholism Drug Abuse Drug Rehabilitation Health Care Services Residential Care Institutions

Accuracy Verified: Yes

15. Solomon, R. M. (2007, June). The art of EMDR: Dealing with abreactions. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Paris, France.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
The overall objective of this workshop is to enable the EMDR therapist to deal more effectively, and comfortably, with intense client affect. Treatment of complex trauma, where dissociation prevents the integration of traumatic emotions, often involved the processing of intense emotions. The abreaction can be quite shocking to the therapist who may then engage the client in talking therapy, utilize resource installation, or provide an interweave to lower the level of intensity. While this can, at times, be appropriate and helpful, often it is counter indicated and a perceived resolution may be short lived and/or needlessly circumscribed. It is important to recognize the markers of treatment, and what choices are appropriate. Ironically, it is often the therapist who is uncomfortable with the level of client affect, rather than the client being unable to deal with the intense emotion.
The hallmark of EMDR is “staying out of the way” if the dysfunctionally stored information is moving. An inherent value of EMDR is to facilitate natural processing and the client’s natural healing patterns. Assuming client readiness and preparation to deal with emotional material, an interweave (which elicits other neural networks), or resource installation (which initiates a state change) or prolonged talking (which initiates an interpersonal process) – though often useful – can interfere with the client’s own internal processing and take the client away form their natural and unique resolution and integration. The therapist can enable the client to process intense material utilizing a) strong attunement skills to hold the client one’s therapeutic presence, b) recognition of behavioral manifestations of processing to guide speed, rate and tempo of bilateral stimulation to maximize processing, c) using different rate, speed and tempo to control emotional intensity of the processing, d) and knowing when to verbally intervene and when to “stay out of the way.”
This workshop will focus on:
a) Assessment of client readiness
b) Therapeutic clinical presence and attunement skills
c) Detecting behavioral manifestations of processing and calibrating bilateral stimulation to the client in order to maximize processing and control intensity
d) Therapeutic choice points concerning verbal interventions and “staying out of the way."
Demonstration and video tapes will be used to illustrate teaching points. (Participants should be aware that the videos have intense emotional content).

Keywords: Abreactions Intense Affect

Accuracy Verified: Yes

16. Solomon, R. M. (2006, September). The art of EMDR: Dealing with abreactions. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Philadelphia, PA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
The overall objective of this workshop is to enable the EMDR therapist to deal more effectively, and comfortably, with intense client affect. Treatment of complex trauma, where dissociation prevents the integration of traumatic memories, often involves the processing of intense emotions. The abreaction can be quite shocking to the therapist who may then engage the client in verbal interventions (e.g. interweave, resource installation, talking therapy). While this can indeed be appropriate and helpful, it is often the therapist who is uncomfortable with the level of & client affect, rather than the client being unable to deal with the intense emotions. The hallmark of EMDR is "staying out of the way" if the dysfunctionally stored information is moving. An inherent value of EMDR is to facilitate natural processing and the client's natural patterns. Assuming client readiness and preparation to deal with emotional material, an interweave (which elicits other neural networks), or resource installation (which initiates a state change) or prolonged talking (which initiates an interpersonal process) - though often useful - can interfere with the client's own internal processing and take the client away from their natural and unique resolution and integration. The therapist can enable the client to process intense material utilizing a) strong attunement skills to hold the client in one's therapeutic presence, b) recognition of behavioral manifestations of processing to guide speed, rate, and tempo of bilateral stimulation to maximize processing c) using different rate, speed, and tempo to control emotional intensity of processing; d) and knowing when to verbally intervene and when to "stay out of the way". Hence, more important than the mechanics of bilateral stimulation is the way EMDR is delivered. EMDR is a "dance" between client and therapist with the therapist interacting through bi-lateral stimulation even more than through verbal communication. This workshop will focus on dealing with intense affect with EMDR (the dance) and include discussjon of 1) How to assess client readiness for dealing with intense material, both before and during EMDR processing. 2) Therapist clinical presence and attunement skills. 3) Detecting behavioral manifestations of processing and calibrating bilateral stimulation to the client in order to maximize processing, and control intensity of processing. 4) Therapeutic choice points concerning verbal interventions and "staying out of the way". Demonstration and video tapes will be used to illustrate teaching points. (Participants should be aware that the videos have intense emotional content).

Keywords: Abreactions

Accuracy Verified: Yes

17. Sack, M., Lempa, W., & Lamprecht, W. (2007). Assessment of psychophysiological stress reactions during a traumatic reminder in patients treated with EMDR. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 1(1), 15-23. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.1.1.15.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
This study investigates changes of stress-related psychophysiological reactions after treatment with EMDR. 16 patients with PTSD following type I trauma underwent psychometric and psychophysiological assessment during exposure to script-driven imagery before and after EMDR and at 6-month follow-up. Psychophysiological assessment included heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) during a neutral task and during trauma script listening. PTSD symptoms as assessed by questionnaire decreased significantly after treatment and during follow-up in comparison to pretreatment. After EMDR, stress-related HR reactions during trauma script were significantly reduced, while HRV indicating parasympathetic tone increased both during neutral script and during trauma script. These results were maintained during the follow-up assessment. Successful EMDR treatment may be associated with reduced psychophysiological stress reactions and heightened parasympathetic tone. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adults Germans Manual-Based Treatments Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiology PTSD Stressors Survivors Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

18. van den Hout, M., Muris, P., Salemink, E., & Kindt, M. (2001). Autobiographical memories become less vivid and emotional after eye movements. British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 40(2), 121-130. doi:10.1348/014466501163535.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Objectives: To test (1) whether eye movements during retrieval of emotional memories are followed by less vividness and less emotionality of future recollections, (2) whether this effect, if present, is stronger than the effects of a control activity (finger tapping), (3) whether the alleged effects of tapping and eye movements are stronger than a no-movement, control condition (mere imagery), (4) whether reductions in vividness and emotionality after eye movements (and finger tapping) are specific to negative memories or also occur in the case of positive memories. Method: 60 healthy volunteers recalled either positive or negative memories and scored the vividness and emotionality of the recollections. Next, memories were recalled whilst the participant was performing rapid eye movements, finger tapping, or not performing a dual task. Then participants were asked to recall the event again and to rate its vividness and emotionality. Results: Compared to finger tapping and the no-dual-task condition, recollections after eye movements made future recollections less vivid. After eye movements, but not after the other interventions, negative memories became less negative, and positive memories became less positive. Conclusion: The findings show that eye movements not only reduce vividness and emotionality of memories during the eye moving, but also affect future recollections, during which no eye movements are made. Some theoretical explanations are discussed. As to clinical implications, it is suggested that if there is a role for eye-movement-based treatments, it is very limited. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adolescents Cognitive Processes College Students Dutch Exposure Therapy Memory Impairment Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Survivors Treatment Effectiveness Young Adults

Accuracy Verified: Yes

19. Wilson, D. L., & Covi, W. (1991, December). Autonomic correlates of EMDR. EMDR Network Newsletter, 1(2), 6.

Language: English

Format: Newsletter

Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to identify autonomic correlates of EMDR as sampled by common measures of physiological functioning: respiration, heart rate, blood pressure, and the galvanic skin response.

Keywords: Autonomic Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

20. Mueller-Schwefe, R. (2010, June). Back into life - EMDR with primary withdrawal after trauma. In Experimental use of EMDR. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
“Where I am? I am somewhere between heaven and earth, but I don't know where exactly." "My therapist waited for my anger, but it just isn't there...nowhere” – “I can't imagine anything helpful when I feel bad, I just don't have the energy... it's all too much for me." – “I just want to give up...” Reaction to traumatic events can vary a lot. This is true even when a PTSD has been diagnosed. Contrary to the 'classical' hyper-arousal response to traumatic memories there is also a different pattern of response that is characterized by a lack of an increase in heart rate, and very different pattern of neural activations, despite having a severe case of acute and subsequent PTSD'[l] and may go along with (peri- and posttraumatic) dissociation, emotional numbness, exhaustion, withdrawal and depression. The above statements belong to people with this pattern of response who have experienced subsequent difficulties already in the stabilization phase of their trauma-therapy. First, I will present an understanding of this symptomatology, the hypothesis being a predominance of the dorsal vagal system (see: Polyvagal Theory [2] and activation of the early withdrawal reflex (or: fear-paralysis reflex). This goes along with particular cognitive and especially emotional and physical features. Second, I will present a way to work with this condition, taking into account that the completion of "interrupted action." In this case does not imply an outward (fight or fight response) but an inward orientation withdrawal). EMDR with an adjusted protocol and tactile bilateral stimulation provides the way to process and pull through this interrupted (or unsatisfied) organismic withdrawal and the fear mostly associated with this process. Returning from this deep and primary withdrawal from life brings back the energy and the patient turns back towards life; vagal predominance subsides and the stuck impulse to withdraw releases. 1. Ruth A. Lanius, James W. Hopper, Ravi 5. Menon, Individual Differences in a Husband and Wife Who Developed PTSD After a Motor Vehicle Accident: A Functional MRI Case Study. Am J Psychiatry 160:4. April 2003, p. 668. 2. Porges. S.W. (2001). The Polyvagal Theory: Phylogenetic substrates of a social nervous system. International Journal of Psychophysiology, 42, 123-146. Learning objectives: 1. Recognize dorsal vagal predominance and primary withdrawal after trauma, 2. Understand the different orientation of interrupted action/ trauma scheme, 3. Know how to help withdrawal-patients to stabilize and process with adjusted EMDR-protocol and tactile or auditory bilateral stimulation. New and unique: Identifying this withdrawal-type of traumatic reaction and scheme, understanding it with the help of Polyvagal Theory and development of EMDR- adjusted protocol and way to process this.

Keywords: Primary Withdrawal Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

21. Gersons, B., & Schnyder, U. (2007, November). Beyond exposure alone: Brief eclectic psychotherapy for PTSD. Presentation at the pre-meeting for Institute of the 23rd of the International Society for Traumatic Stress, Baltimore MD.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
The efficacy of psychotherapeutic and pharmacotherapeutic approaches in the treatment of PTSD can be regarded as empirically demonstrated. Overall, effect sizes seem to be higher for psychotherapy as compared with medication. Many well-controlled trials with a mixed variety of trauma survivors have demonstrated that CBT is particularly effective in treating PTSD. More specifically, exposure therapy currently is seen as the treatment modality with the strongest evidence for its efficacy. However dropout rates from studies of CBT (including EMDR) usually are around 20 percent. Up to 58 percent of patients who completed CBT are still diagnosed with PTSD at posttreatment assessment. Furthermore, only 32-66 percent of patients included achieved good end-state functioning. There is a need to have treatment protocols based on CBT which meet more the expectations of traumatized clients. The 16-sessions Brief Eclectic Protocol (BEP) originally developed for police officers with PTSD proved to be effective in two randomized controlled trials and has been accepted in the NICE-Guidelines (2005). The second trial also showed effectivity on biological data. A trial in Zurich is still running. BEP encompasses apart from a slightly different form of exposure psychoeducation at the start (with the partner present), the use of letter writing to express angry feelings, the use of memorabilia and 12 sessions for the domain of meaning, how it changes the view on the world and on the person his or herself. It is ended with a farewell ritual. The dropout rate is lower compared to the traditional CBT. In the workshop the protocol will be presented, discussed and parts of it will be trained. www.

Keywords: Brief Eclectic Psychotherapy

Accuracy Verified: Yes

22. Anchisi, R., Guzzi, R., Fernandez, I., Giannantonio, M., & Ziveri, D. (2001, October). Biofeedback measures in EMDR treatment. In Collegium Internationale Activitatis Nervosae Superioris; International Association for Integrative Nervous Functions, Neurobiology of behaviour and Psychosomatics, (pp 141-148). Palermo, Italy.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
We compared the pre and post therapeutic treatment data using standard EMDR, using a lool such as biofeedback, capable of measuring certain physiologcail parameters in an objective way. The goal was to check variations in the physiological indices and subjective evaluations of well being and discomfort in the subjects. Some psychotherapists will select subjects using an initial telephone screening followed by a battery of suitable tests. Using such tools, subjects affected by PTSD without comorbidity will be chosen. Independent assessors will evaluate them again after six weeks (blind design). After this assessment, subjective data will be collected using the SUD scale and objective data will be collected using the SPR, Thermo, Heart Rate, EMG of the biofeedback channels. After exposure the subjects will be randomly assigned to an experimenta1 group, they will be going to meet in six sessions using the EMDR standard protocol and carried out by therapits recognized by the Association EMDR Italy; the other half of the sample will represent the control group in a waiting list. Once more, all the subjects will be exposed to the trauma, this time listening to the recording of their description of the traumatic event. The SUD and biofeedback values will be then measured again. The comparison of the data of the SUD scale with the data of the biofeedback channels, in particular the SPR channel, plus the evaluation of the group of independent clinicians using the above-mentioned tests, will provide the co-ordinates for an evaluation (both subjetive and physiological) of the clinical results of the EMDR therapy.

Keywords: Biofeedback Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

23. Haour, F. (2009, June). Brain source imaging of the alpha rhythm in PTSD patients using the MEG technique. In K. Zaal (Chair), Research). Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
In anxiety disorders, such as PTSD, brain imaging has demonstrated local modifications of functional activities using various techniques. In the present study the direct neuronal activities were measured in delta, theta and beta frequencies, using Magnetoencephalagraphy (MEG) which provides very fast temporal response. The technique is neither invasive nor stressful for the patients. Nineteen female volunteers with DSM-IV PTSD were included in the study. The protocol was a script-driven imagery provocation test, achieved with the patients sitting in the MEG apparatus. The scenarios, specific for ach patient, were composed of 4 active conditions: neutral image (N) traumatic memory (T), traumatic memory suppression (TS) and positive image (P) corresponding to 3 minutes where the patient had to imagine the corresponding sequence with eyes closed Measures of heat rate and subjective disturbance (SUD) were measured during the recoding. The MEG data were analysed in the source domain using a spatial filtering approach. Measurement of electrophysiological waves of various rhythms: delta: 1-4 Hetz (Hz), theta: 4.8-5.8 Hz, alpha: 8-12 Hz and beta: 12-25 Hz was obtained. Anatomical information was from MRI imaging. Signal of activation during trauma recall (T-N) were limited to the delta and theta waves and mainly found in the left hemisphere (visual, orbitofrontal and dorsolateral prefrontal and temporal gyrus (BA 8-9-10-11, 18-19, 22, 28) and in the right supra marginal gyrus (Wernicke BA 40). Signal of inhibition during trauma recall (T-N) were found mainly in the left hemisphere, in the delta, alpha and beta waves (visual, orbitofrontal, dorsolateral prefrontal and temporal gyrus (BA 8-9-10-11, 18-18, 22, 28), cingular cortex (BA 23-24, 31, 32), insula (BA 13) and Broca visual cortex (BA 18-19, 43-44). In conclusion trauma recall mainly induces a hypoactivation in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and in the cingular cortices, structures linked to the experience and regulation of emotions.

Keywords: Alpha Rhythm Brain Imaging MEG Technique Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Research Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

24. Haour, F. (2010, June). Brain source imaging using magnetoencephalography (MEG): Modifications in various rhythms during memory recall, in PTSD patients. In Research. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: Magnetoencephalography MEG Memory Recall Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Research Rhythms Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

25. Frustaci, A., Lanza, G. A., Fernandez, F., di Giannantonio, M., & Pozzi, G. (2010). Changes in psychological symptoms and heart rate variability during EMDR treatment: A case series of subthreshold PTSD. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 4(1), 3-11. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.4.1.3.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Elevated psychophysiological parameters and heightened physiological reactivity to trauma-related cues are acquired changes following trauma exposure. Measuring improvement in these variables is an appropriate evaluation of outcome in treatment studies. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is a computerized measure of physiological responsivity derived from Holter ECG recording. Four female outpatients with persistent post-traumatic symptoms and personal impairment following “small t” trauma exposure underwent a course of EMDR treatment and were assessed at baseline, end of treatment, day 30 and day 90 of followup, using self-report symptom scales and 90-min Holter ECG recordings. Symptom scores decreased between baseline and end of treatment, with improvement maintained at follow-up. Several HRV measures changed favorably in different recording intervals. HRV is a feasible and sensitive method to measure physiological changes in the treatment of individuals distressed by “small t” trauma. Further investigation is advisable to expand these preliminary data.

Keywords: Case Series Heart Rate Variability HRV IES Small T Trauma

Accuracy Verified: Yes

26. Opdyke, D. C. (1995, May). Clinical efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. Georgia State University. AAT 9608510.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has gained notoriety as a brief treatment for PTSD. In EMDR, clients repeatedly bring up traumatic events in memory and visually track stimuli moving back and forth in front of them. Previous group studies of EMDR have had methodological problems, however. The present study attempted to (1) assess EMDR's effectiveness compared to an Eye Focus treatment controlling for eye movement; (2) compare both treatments to a wait-list control; and (3) rate therapist characteristics to check experimenter bias.20 participants suffering from PTSD were randomly assigned to either EMDR or Eye Focus (EF) treatments, and immediate treatment or wait-list conditions. After two 90-minute treatment sessions, outcomes were assessed on subjective measures of anxiety (SUDs) and cognitive beliefs (VOCs). The mean SUDs pre-post differences on matched pairs t-tests indicated significant reduction of disturbance for both the EMDR group, p < .001, and the Eye Focus group, p < .001. VOC ratings showed similar treatment gains. Two-factor analyses assessed changes across groups (2 administrations x 2 treatment groups) on two standardized measures, the Impact of Event Scale (IES) and the Modified PTSD Symptom Scale (MPSS). The IES showed a main effect for treatment F (2, 18) = 16.45, p < .001, while wait-list remained unchanged F (2, 18) = 1.09, p > .05. A significant interaction F (2, 18) = 6.69, p < .05 supported treatment efficacy. EMDR and EF participants improved equally on the IES, i.e., no differences for type of treatment, F (2, 18) = 0.54, p > .05. The MPSS also showed a main effect for treatment, F (2, 18) = 6.46, p < .05, with wait-list unchanged, F (2, 18) = 0.27, p > .05. This interaction was not significant, p =.10. Further, both EMDR and EF groups demonstrated improvement on the MPSS. Results suggest that (1) EMDR and Eye Focus are both effective in reducing some self-reported PTSD symptoms; (2) EMDR and Eye Focus scores improved significantly compared to wait-list; and (3) ratings of experimenter bias suggested that the EMDR and Eye Focus participants were treated equally by the therapist. Future comparison studies should use larger samples, independent assessors, and equally-trained independent therapists. [Author Abstract] Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 56(11-B), May 1996, pp. 6402

Keywords: Empirical Study Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychotherapeutic Processes PTSD Treatment Effectiveness Treatment Outcome/Clinical Trial

Accuracy Verified: Yes

27. Oncley, P. R. (1992). A comparison of eye movement desensitization and implosion-like therapy with adult victims of sexual abuse. Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA. AAT 9302718.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is a recently developed technique that has been reported in the literature to be effective in treating many of the symptoms associated with PTSD. This study investigated the role of saccadic eye movements in this technique by utilizing a multiple-baseline, across subjects design with 4 adult victims of childhood sexual abuse.Eye movement desensitization conditions (EMD) were compared to non saccadic eye movement conditions (NM) utilizing a Latin square design over one treatment session. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R (SCID-R) and the PTSD module of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III (SCID) were used for initial diagnosis and screening. Treatment effectiveness between the intervention phase and 1 week follow-up was assessed using the Impact of Event Scale (IES) and the PTSD Symptom Checklist. Skin conductance response (SCR), heart rate, and subjective units of distress (SUDS) were assessed during pretreatment, treatment, posttreatment, and follow-up phases. Results showed no significant differences across subjects among SCR, heart rate, and SUDS between the EMD and NM conditions. IES and PTSD Symptom Checklist follow-up data showed symptom improvement for 3 of the 4 subjects. One subject's intrusive symptoms worsened. All subjects displayed less physiological reactivity to the traumatic imagery at follow-up. Mechanisms that contribute to the effectiveness of EMD and recommendations for future study were discussed. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adults Arousal Child Abuse Exposure Therapy Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Rape Survivors Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

28. Ironson, G., Freund, B., Strauss, J., & Williams, J. (2002, January). Comparison of two treatments for traumatic stress: A community-based study of EMDR and prolonged exposure. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 58(1), 113-128. doi:10.1002/jclp.1132.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
This pilot study compared the efficacy of two treatments for PTSD: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure (PE). Data were analyzed for 22 patients from a university-based clinic serving the outside community (predominantly rape and crime victims) who completed at least one active session of treatment after three preparatory sessions. Results showed both approaches produced a significant reduction in PTSD and depression symptoms, which were maintained at three-month follow-up. Successful treatment was faster with EMDR as a larger number of people (7 of 10) had a 70% reduction in PTSD symptoms after three active sessions compared to 2 of 12 with PE. EMDR appeared to be better tolerated as the dropout rate was significantly lower in those randomized to EMDR versus PE (0 of 10 vs. 3 of 10). However all patients who remained in treatment with PE had a reduction in PTSD scores. Finally, Subjective Units of Distress (SUDS) ratings decreased significantly during the initial session of EMDR, but changed little during PE. Postsession SUDS were significantly lower for EMDR than for PE. Suggestions for future research are discussed. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Empirical Study Meta Analysis Methodology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Prolonged Exposure PTSD Random Clinical Trial RCT Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

29. Greenwald, R., McClintock, S. D., & Bailey, T. D. (In press). A controlled comparison of progressive counting and eye movement desensitization & reprocessing. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment, & Trauma.

Language: English

Format: Other

Abstract:
Ten therapists who were already trained and experienced in eye movement desensitization & reprocessing (EMDR) received training in progressive counting (PC), a newer trauma resolution method. Nineteen volunteers with single-incident trauma or loss were assigned to a therapist and then randomized to treatment condition; 15 completed treatment to termination criteria or until the fourth session. Participants in both conditions experienced significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, memory-related distress, and presenting problems at one week post-treatment, maintained at 12-week follow-up, with no significant differences in outcomes, treatment efficiency, or dropout rate. The preliminary findings of this pilot study suggest that PC is an efficient, well-tolerated, and effective trauma treatment that is relatively easy for therapists to master.

Keywords: CBT Cognitive Behavior Therapy Exposure Loss Progressive Counting Trauma Treatment

Accuracy Verified: No

30. Hyer, L. A., Boudewyns, P. A., Peralme, L., Touze, J., & Kiel, A. (1995, June). Controlled treatment outcome study using EMDR on combat-related post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Presentation at the EMDR Network Conference, Santa Monica, CA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
After the status of PTSD was established, subjects were randomly assigned to one of three conditions; EMDR, exposure control (EC), and group (GT). Subjects in EMDR condition received at least five but no more than eight sessions of EMDR. EC condition subjects therapy procedure as the EMDR subjects but without the eye movements. Subjects in the GT condition received five to eight session of group therapy only. Outcome measures were at intervals; prior to therapy, immediately following therapy and at two follow-up periods. These include: (1) self report or interview-related psychological measures (Combat Exposure scale, MMPI-2 PTSD, Veterans Adjustment Scale (VETS), Mississippi Scale, Hamilton (Depression and Anxiety); (2) behavioral outcome measures (employment, treatment seeking behavior medication therapy, and re hospitalization rate); and (3) psychophysiological response measures (skin conductance, frontalis EMG, heart rate and blood pressure). The last measures involved a change measure in psychological arousal during exposure to tape recorded scripts depicting the patients' most traumatic combat memory. In addition to these pre-, post-, follow-up measures, measures (SUD, profile of mood scale (POMS), and impact of events scale (IOE) were taken at each therapy session. Early results on selected outcomes show differences in positive outcome between conditions POMS EMDR>GT (p<.01); IOE Avoidance, EMDR>GT (p<.04); IOE Intrusion, EMDR>GT(p<.03); Heart Rate, EMDR>GT (p<.04). Presently, there were no other significant differences between EMDR or EC. Trends, however suggest that EMDR may be superior to EC on several of the measures. These results indicate that EMDR may be producing greater reduction in the conditioned emotional response to traumatic memories in these patients, when compared to group therapy approach commonly used to treat these types of patients in a special VA treatment program.

Keywords: Combat Controlled Treatment Outcome Study Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

31. Dattilio, F. (2001). Crisis intervention techniques for panic disorder. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 55(3), 388-405.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Panic disorder is estimated to affect more than 4% of the U.S. population. It is assumed that this incident rate increases during crisis situations. While the professional literature is replete with references on the treatment of panic disorders, few authors address the use of nondrug treatment in conjunction with crisis intervention. This article provides an overview of the latest nonpharmacologic interventions for panic along with a description of their effectiveness in reducing the onset of symptomatology as well as preventing relapse during crisis.

Keywords: Crisis Intervention Non-drug Treatment Panic dsiorder Nonpharmacological Interventions

Accuracy Verified: Yes

32. Thompson, P. (2007, April-May). Defending EMDR. Scientific American Mind, 18(2), 5.

Language: English

Format: Magazine

Abstract:
A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Taking a Closer Look," by Scott O. Lilienfeld and Hal Arkowitz in a previous issue.
The authors state that EMDR is not more effective than standard behavioral and cognitive-behavioral therapies. I have heard that EMDR is less stressful than standard therapies for PTSD and thus has a lower dropout rate and that this difference is not taken into account in studies of EMDR (because only patients who complete therapy are included in the studies). Is there indeed a difference in dropout rates?

Keywords: Letter

Accuracy Verified: Yes

33. Hembree, E., Foa, E., Dorfan, N., Street, G., Kowalski, J., & Tu, X. (2003, December). Do patients drop out prematurely from exposure therapy for PTSD?. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 16(6), 555-562. doi:10.1023/B:JOTS.0000004078.93012.7d.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Many studies have demonstrated the efficacy of exposure therapy in the treatment of chronic PTSD. Despite the convincing outcome literature, a concern that this treatment may exacerbate symptoms and lead to premature dropout has been voiced on the basis of a few reports. In this paper, we examined the hypothesis that treatments that include exposure will be associated with a higher dropout rate than treatments that do not include exposure. A literature search identified 25 controlled studies of cognitivebehavioral treatment for PTSD that included data on dropout. The results indicated no difference in dropout rates among exposure therapy, cognitive therapy, stress inoculation training, and EMDR. These findings are consistent with previous research about the tolerability of exposure therapy. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Cognitive Therapy Exposure Therapy Literature Review Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment Dropouts

Accuracy Verified: Yes

34. Tym, R., Dyck, M., & McGrath, G. (2000, July-August). Does a visual perceptual disturbance characterize trauma-related anxiety syndromes?. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 14(4), 377-394. doi:10.1016/S0887-6185(00)00029-3.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
The i-test was developed to assess the visual-perceptual disturbances (VPDs) frequently reported by anxious patients. Persons with the disturbance report a specific abnormal illusion of movement when they maintain a fixed gaze at the i-test stimulus. Base rates for positive responses to the i-test and for reports of a "recurrent specific memory" (RSM) of a fear experience were obtained in psychiatric outpatient (n = 301) and community (n = 128) samples. In each case, approximately one fifth of participants had a positive response to the i-test and one fifth of participants reported an RSM of fear. A positive response to the i-test is observed in women more frequently than in men. Among psychiatric patients, approximately 90% of patients who report one symptom also report the other symptom; among community members, the concordance rate is approximately 33%. When psychiatric patients with both an abnormal illusion of movement response and an RSM of trauma are treated with eye movement desensitization, both symptoms are removed in 70% of cases; when these patients undergo some other form of treatment, both symptoms are removed in 30% of cases. These results indicate that the i-test is an effective way of identifying VPDs associated with psychopathologic conditions; the association between the abnormal illusion of movement and reports of recurrent specific memories of fear experiences suggests that the VPD may be a marker of traumatic stress syndromes. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adolescents Adults Assessment Children Depressive Disorders Females Males Injuries Memory Retrieval Techniques Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Somatic Symptoms Survivors Treatment Effectiveness Visual Hallucinations Witnesses

Accuracy Verified: Yes

35. Hembree, E., Foa, E., & Dorfan, N. (2002, November). Dropout rates across treatments for PTSD. In N. Feeney (Chair), Is exposure therapy for PTSD helpful or harmful? Symposium conducted at the 18th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Baltimore, MD.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Is Exposure Therapy For PTSD Helpful or Harmful?: Does exposure therapy cause severe symptom exacerbation or treatment dropout? We will examine clinical impressions and research in this area. First, clinical perspectives on the tolerability of exposure will be presented.Then, three empirical papers will explore: dropout rates for exposure, symptom exacerbation in women undergoing imaginal exposure, and factors that influence treatment choices.

Dropout rates across treatments for PTSD: Many studies have demonstrated the efficacy of exposure therapy in the treatment of chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite the convincing outcome literature, a concern that this treatment may exacerbate symptoms and lead to premature dropout has been voiced on the basis of a few reports. In the present paper, we examined the hypothesis that treatments that include exposure will be associated with a higher dropout rate than treatments that do not include exposure. A literature search identified 17 controlled studies of cognitive behavioral treatment for PTSD that 67 Concurrent Sessions–Saturday,November 9 Saturday: 1:00 p.m.–2:15 p.m. included data on dropout. The results indicated no difference in dropout rates among exposure therapy, cognitive therapy, stress inoculation training, and EMDR.These findings are consistent with previous research about the tolerability of exposure therapy.

Keywords: Dropout Rate Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

36. Graham, L. B., & Robinson, E. M. (2007, Spring). Effect of EMDR on anxiety and swim times. Journal of Swimming Research, 17, 1-9.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
This study investigated the effect of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) on swimmers who had experienced a traumatic swimming event. Measures of performance, anxiety, and self-perception in (N = 65) competitive college and high school swimmers were collected Swimmers were randomly assigned to one of three conditions; EMDR, imagery or no treatment. All participants took the State-Trait Anxiety Scale and performed a 100 yd freestyle swim pretreatment and posttreatment. The EMDR and imagery group had two additional anxiety measures: [heart rate and Subjective Units of Distress, (SUDS)] and one cognition scale the Validity of Cognition Scale. These two groups had three sessions of either EMDR or imagery. Trait anxiety scores did not differ among groups as expected but the EMDR group's state anxiety decreased compared to the no treatment group p = .002. Heart rate and SUDS decreased as a consequence of group, with EMDR showing a drop in rate p < .001. Swim times were not different for all the groups, but EMDR improved compared to the no treatment p = .043. The EMDR group endorsed greater coping beliefs than the imagery group p < .01. EMDR may provide coaches with an alternative to imagery to help the athlete who has a "mental block" (negative thoughts indicating inability to cope with the swimming event) secondary to a traumatic sport

Keywords: Anxiety Swimming

Accuracy Verified: Yes

37. Lee, H., Yum, M. K., Kim, S. H., Lee, Y. J., & Kim, D. (2008). Effect of horizontal eye movements on the heart rate variability after exposure to a fear-inducing film clip. Korean Journal of Biological Psychiatry, 15(1), 35-45.

Language: Korean

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Objectives: There has been a continued debate regarding the role of eye movements in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). This study examined the possible autonomic effect of horizontal eye movements after being exposed to fearful stimuli. Methods: Fifty two healthy adult women were randomly allocated to eye movement or eye fixed groups after watching a five minute fear-inducing film clip. ECG was recorded during the resting state, after watching the clip, and the treatment. A spectral power analysis of the heart rate variability was performed. As the variables violated the rule of normal distribution and the number in each group is small the non-parametric test was used. Results: Overall, we did not find the differences between the groups in both time and frequency domains. Some minor differences found were not consistent with results from previous studies. Conclusions: Effect of eye movement on autonomic nervous system during fear desensitization was not supported in this experiment. Further study with other psychophysiological measures is needed to understand the role of eye movements in treatment of traumatic memory.

Keywords: Autonomic Nervous System Eye Movements Eye Movements Females Fear Film Clip Heart Rate Variability Horitzontal Korean

Accuracy Verified: Yes

38. Becich, H. A. (1995). The effect of varying the rate of the eye movements in eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) with battered women. California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles, CA. AAT 9531596.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
The rapid saccades used in eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) have been reputed to be critical to its efficacy. To evaluate this hypothesis, the rate of the eye movements was varied in this study. Subjects included 27 battered women who were rated PTSD-positive by a modified version of the Symptom Checklist (MSC). Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: EMDR Fast, EMDR Slow or Control.Prior to treatment, subjects completed the Revised Impact of Events Scale (IES). Treatment involved one experimental session lasting up to 90 minutes. Dependent variables included the Subjective Units of Distress (SUDs) (derived from the Subjective Units of Disturbance Scale), the Validity of Cognition (VOC) and the Vividness of Traumatic Image (VTI) Scales as well as the Intrusion subscales of the MSC and the IES. At post-treatment one week later, subjects again provided responses to the five dependent variables and, for ethical reasons, were provided another session of treatment at the EMDR Fast rate if their SUDs were 2 or greater. Results of the mixed, two factor analyses indicated no differences between the groups. Hence, the outcomes showed that the rapid eye movements did not provide a differential treatment effect as hypothesized. All groups experienced improvement on the SUDs and VTI Scales and the MSC Intrusion subscale, supporting occurrence of an exposure effect. This investigation was the first controlled EMDR study conducted with battered women, as well as the first experiment on this procedure using a clinical population in which the rate of the eye movements was varied. [Author Abstract] Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 56(5-B), Nov 1995, pp. 2854

Keywords: Adults Americans Battery Empirical Study Follow-up Study Females Posttraumatic Stress DIsorder PTSD Spouse Abuse Survivors Treatment Effectiveness Treatment Outcome/Clinical Trial

Accuracy Verified: Yes

39. Borstein, S. S. (2009, August). The effectiveness of brief adjunctive EMDR: A pilot study. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Atlanta, GA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
A pilot study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of brief adjunctive EMDR treatment, in the naturalistic setting of an outpatient clinical office. All clients referred for adjunctive EMDR were considered for this study. A total of 14 individuals were accepted for treatment and completed that treatment, utilizing the standard EMDR protocol. Length of treatment was four to thirteen 50 minute sessions (mean = 8.8 sessions). Each subject was administered five self-report measures pre- and post-treatment. In addition, referring therapists were asked to rate the intensity of one to three presenting problems, pre- and post-treatment. Four out of five self-report measures indicated statistically significant improvement, with significance greater than .001. The effect size was Large or Very Large for those four measures.

Keywords: Adjunctive Treatment Brief Adjunctive EMDR Treatment Poster

Accuracy Verified: Yes

40. Aytun, O. A. (2010, June). The effectiveness of EMDR and support group treatment model in smoking cessation. In Addictions. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a treatment model in cigarette cessation. Among the volunteers who enrolled to participate in the study, 15 participants were selected as our subject group in terms of their scores in Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (middle or upper level of dependency). The participants of this study attended 9 weeks of treatment including a preliminary session in the first week following 8 EMDR sessions (once a week) and 4 group sessions (once every two weeks). The 5 follow up sessions (15-day, a month, 3 month. 6 month. 1 year foilow-up) are included in the study to evaluate the efficacy of the model and the relapse rate of the subjects. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) DeTUR Protocol (Popky, 1993) and a support group format is used as treatment methods. Hughes-Watsukami Withdrawal Questionnaire, STAI, Traumatic Life Events Questionnaire (TLEQ) and Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence is the instruments of this study.

Keywords: Group Treatment Smoking Cessation Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

41. Merckelbach, H., Hogervorst, E., Kampman, M., & de Jongh, A. (1994). Effects of '"eye movement desensitization" on emotional processing in normal subjects. Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 22(4), 331-335. doi:10.1017/S1352465800013217.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
A number of single case reports have made impressive claims for the efficacy of "eye movement desensitization" (EMD) in the treatment of traumatic memories. Many of these case reports claim that EMD reduces the unpleasant feelings associated with traumatic images. However, at present, there are no published controlled studies that provide evidence for these claims. The present experiment investigated whether EMD inhibits emotional responding during retrieval of aversive information. Normal Ss (N = 40) were exposed to an aversive slide. During a next stage, half of the Ss underwent EMD while they rehearsed the slide information, whereas the other half underwent a control procedure (i.e., finger tapping) while rehearsing slide information. Before and after EMD or control intervention, heart rate and self-report data were obtained while Ss retrieved and visualized the aversive slide. No evidence was found to suggest that EMD inhibits emotional reactivity more than does finger tapping. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Aversive Stimulation Emotional Responding During Retrieval of Aversive Information Emotional Responses Eye Movements Treatment

Accuracy Verified: Yes

42. Nettz, S. L. (1995, August). Effects of a single session of EMDR, flooding, and a credible placebo treatment on traumatic memories in male veterans. Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL. AAT 9614404.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
This study explored the effectiveness of a single session of three different treatments for traumatic memories. Subjects were 45 adult males, randomly assigned to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Flooding, or Placebo therapy (Modified Avoidance Response Conditioning [ MARC]). Self-report and physiological measures were employed to measure treatment effectiveness. Subjects completed the following pre-treatment inventories: Michigan Alcohol Screening Test, Impact of Event Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Questionnaire on Mental Imagery, and the Treatment Credibility Questionnaire. Post-treatment measures included self-report measures (Subjective Units of Distress [ SUDs] and Treatment Credibility Questionnaire) and physiological measures (heart rate, skin conductance, and skin temperature). Treatments were rated as equally credible before and after the session. Both EMDR and Flooding produced a significant decrease in the self-report of anxiety compared to the Placebo (MARC) group. Neither heart rate or skin conductance channels showed a significant change for any of the three groups during post-treatment assessment phases. However, skin temperature was significantly lower for the Flooding group compared to the MARC group during two post-treatment phases, suggesting that the Flooding group was more physiologically aroused than Placebo (MARC) subjects. Findings suggest that during Flooding, exposure to disturbing elements of a trauma is associated with physiological arousal, which in turn leads to lessening of subjective distress. However, a different mechanism may account for EMDR treatment effects. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved) Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 57(1-B), Jul 1996, pp. 0687

Keywords: Adults Emotional Trauma Empirical Study Evaluation Male Memory Military Treatment Effectiveness Treatment Outcome/Clinical Trial Veterans

Accuracy Verified: Yes

43. Parker, A., Relph, S., & Dagnall, N. (2008, January). Effects of bilateral eye movements on the retrieval of item, associative, and contextual information. Neuropsychology, 22(1), 136-145. doi:10.1037/0894-4105.22.1.136.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Two experiments are reported that investigate the effects of saccadic bilateral eye movements on the retrieval of item, associative, and contextual information. Experiment 1 compared the effects of bilateral versus vertical versus no eye movements on tests of item recognition, followed by remember-know responses and associative recognition. Supporting previous research, bilateral eye movements enhanced item recognition by increasing the hit rate and decreasing the false alarm rate. Analysis of remember-know responses indicated that eye movement effects were accompanied by increases in remember responses. The test of associative recognition found that bilateral eye movements increased correct responses to intact pairs and decreased false alarms to rearranged pairs. Experiment 2 assessed the effects of eye movements on the recall of intrinsic (color) and extrinsic (spatial location) context. Bilateral eye movements increased correct recall for both types of context. The results are discussed within the framework of dual-process models of memory and the possible neural underpinnings of these effects are considered. [PsycINFO]

Keywords: Bilateral Stimulation BLS Eye Movements

Accuracy Verified: Yes

44. Choi, K. M., Min, J. A., Park, G. H., Lee, S.-H., & Chae, J.-H. (2011). The effects of horizontal eye movement on mental health indices and psychophysiological activities in healthy subjects. Korean Journal of Biological Psychiatry, 18(3), 148-158.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Objectives: The eye movement (EM) has been reported to play a role in enhancing the retrieval of episodic memories and reducing effects of fearful episodes in the past and worries for the futures. However, it is still unclear in the mechanism of EM in normal subjects. We examined the horizontal eye movement (HEM) effect using an aiding apparatus on mental health indices including negative and positive psychological factors, and psychophysiological measures such as heart rate variability and quantitative electroencepaholography (qEEG) in healthy subjects.
Methods: Twenty eight healthy subjects were recruited and randomly allocated into two groups : active HEM group and control group. The active HEM group conducted the HEM training with usual stress management audio-intervention using the apparatus inducing eye movement once a day for 14 days. The control group also conducted the same training once a day for 14 days, however, the saccadic eye movement was not included in this training. Psychological measurements, neurocognitive function tests, heart rate variability measurement and qEEG were conducted before and after the training in both groups.
Results: In the active HEM group, sleep status using Sleep Quality Scale (SQS) positive factors significantly increased after the training. By contrast, scores on the negative items of Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS), and negative items of the Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R) were significantly decreased after the training. The percentage of delta amplitude (1-3 Hz) in qEEG significantly decreased after the HEM training. The percentage of alpha amplitude (8-12 Hz) significantly increased after HEM training. The change of delta amplitude in the active HEM group was positively correlated with the change of sleep satisfaction of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the change of alpha amplitude was negatively correlated with depression of VAS, anxiety of VAS and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI).
Conclusions: The HEM training improved sleep quality and well-being, and sense of optimism. The HEM training also increased alpha amplitude and decreased delta amplitude in qEEG. The qEEG changes were well correlated with subjective improvement of mental health indices in healthy subjects. These results suggest some evidences that HEM training using the apparatus that induces EM would be helpful in improving subjective mental health in healthy subjects. Further study with larger samples size would be needed.

Keywords: Horitzontal Eye Movements

Accuracy Verified: Yes

45. Pastva, A. M. (2008). The effects of rhythmic and arrhythmic eye movements on memory recall. The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA..

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a therapy that treats many trauma-related disorders by requiring patients to perform rapid eye movements, has raised controversy because it lacks the support of a proven theoretical rationale. A recent theoretical explanation proposes that the eye movements reduce the vividness of the distressing images by disrupting the function of the visuospatial sketchpad (VSSP) of working memory, but support for this model has been weakened by methodological flaws that the current study attempted to overcome. The present study compared the effects of tracking rhythmic and arrhythmic stimuli on the recall of arousing television shock-ads. Eye-movement conditions did not significantly differ in terms of vividness, emotionality, or accuracy of memory as compared to the control condition. Arrhythmic targets increased the negative emotional response and decreased the vividness of the memories, but neither rhythmic nor arrhythmic target patterns produced responses that differed from the control condition. Heart rate recordings taken throughout the study did not suggest that arousal mediates the relationship between eye-movement patterns and vividness. The present study does not support the VSSP theory but provides valuable insights on the direction of future research.

Keywords: Eye Memory Visual perception

Accuracy Verified: Yes

46. Schubert, S. (2010, July). The efficacy and psycho physiological correlates of dual-attention tasks in EMDR. Poster presented at the 1st EMDR Asia Conference, Bali, Indonesia.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Methods: Sixty-two non-clinical participants with negative autobiographical memories received a single EMDR session that involved fixed or varied rate eye movements, or exposure without eye movements. Subjective units of distress and vividness of the memory were recorded at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 1 week follow-up. EMDR-with eye movements led to greater reduction in distress (SUDs) than EMDR-without eye movements. Psycho physiological measures were continuously recorded throughout each session. Results: Heart rate decreased significantly when eye movements began; skin conductance decreased during eye movement sets; heart rate variability and respiration rate increased significantly as eye movements continued; and orienting responses were more frequent in the eye movement than no-eye movement condition at the start of exposure. Conclusion: These findings indicate that eye movements in EMDR are beneficial, and are coupled with distinct psycho physiological changes that may aid in the processing of negative memories. Implications for clinical practice, directions for future research, and the importance of building bridges between East & West whilst conducting EMDR research will also be discussed.

Keywords: Dual Attention Poster Physiological Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

47. Schubert, S. (2010, July). The efficacy and psychobiological correlates of dual-attention task. Presentation at the 1st EMDR Asia Conference, Bali, Indonesia.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
The study being presented aimed to investigate the psycho physiological correlates and the effectiveness of different dualattention tasks used during eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR). Sixty-two non-clinical participants with negative autobiographical memories received a single EMDR session that involved fixed or varied rate eye movements, or exposure without eye movements. Subjective units of distress and vividness of the memory were recorded at pretreatment, post-treatment, and 1 week follow-up. EMDR-with eye movements led to greater reduction in distress (SUDs) than EMDR-without eye movements. Psycho physiological measures were continuously recorded throughout each session. Heart rate decreased significantly when eye movements began; skin conductance decreased during eye movement sets; heart rate variability and respiration rate increased significantly as eye movements continued; and orienting responses were more frequent in the eye movement than no-eye movement condition at the start of exposure. These findings indicate that eye movements in EMDR are beneficial, and are coupled with distinct psycho physiological changes that may aid in the processing of negative memories. Implications for clinical practice, directions for future research, and the importance of building bridges between East & West whilst conducting EMDR research will also be discussed.

Keywords: Dual Attention Psychophysiological Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

48. Schubert, S. J., Lee, C. W., & Drummond, P. D. (2011, January). The efficacy and psychophysiological correlates of dual-attention tasks in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 25, 1-11. doi:10.1016/j.janxdis.2010.06.024.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
This study aimed to investigate the psychophysiological correlates and the effectiveness of different dual-attention tasks used during eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Sixty-two non-clinical participants with negative autobiographical memories received a single session of EMDR without eye movements, or EMDR that included eye movements of either varied or fixed rate of speed. Subjective units of distress and vividness of the memory were recorded at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 1 week follow-up. EMDR-with eye movements led to greater reduction in distress than EMDR-without eye movements. Heart rate decreased significantly when eye movements began; skin conductance decreased during eye movement sets; heart rate variability and respiration rate increased significantly as eye movements continued; and orienting responses were more frequent in the eye movement than no-eye movement condition at the start of exposure. Findings indicate that the eye movement component in EMDR is beneficial, and is coupled with distinct psychophysiological changes that may aid in processing negative memories.

Keywords: Eye Movements Autobiographical Memory Psychophysiology Orienting Response

Accuracy Verified: Yes

49. Renfrey, G. (1993). The efficacy of eye movement desensitization in the treatment of trauma related imagery and cognitions: A partial dismantling procedure. Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo MI. AAT 9412220.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
This study investigated the effects of eye movement desensitization (EMD) on post-traumatic sequelae, and attempted a partial dismantling of the procedure to determine the necessity of EMD's characteristic eye movements. 23 persons participated in three groups: (1) those receiving standard EMD, (2) those receiving a variant of EMD in which eye movements were engendered through a light tracking task, and (3) those receiving a variant of EMD in which fixed visual attention replaced eye movements. All participants had experienced traumata as defined by the DSM-III-R and were having intrusive symptoms of PTSD at pre-treatment. All but two met full DSM-III-R criteria for PTSD. Each received two to six treatment sessions.Dependent variables included heart rate changes, subjective units of distress ratings, validity of both initial and targeted trauma-related cognitions during trauma-related imagery, overall frequency and intensity scores on the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale, anxiety and depression T-scores on the Symptom Checklist (SCL-90-R), and scores on the Impact of Events Scale. Assessments were conducted at pre- and post-treatment and at a one- to three-month follow-up. All three interventions produced significant, positive changes in all dependant measures between pre- and post-treatments. Further, these changes were maintained at follow-up. No significant differences between groups were observed. These changes were of comparable magnitude to those reported elsewhere, but were brought about through a greater number of treatment sessions. It was concluded that EMD does bring about fairly rapid therapeutic changes in those post-traumatic sequelae measured, though not as efficiently as most previous reports have suggested. Further, it was concluded that the eye movements peculiar to EMD are not a necessary component of the procedure. The similarities and differences between the present findings and previous reports are discussed, as are the limitations and implications of the present study. Recommendations for future work are made. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Clinical Trial Partial Dismantling Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

50. Grbesa, G., Stankovic, D., & Simonovic, M. (2008, June). Electrophysiological changes during EMDR treatment. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, London, England.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Efficiency of the EMDR procedure is based on a presumption of neuropsychological changes in therapeutically process. The aim of the investigation is scanning and gives evidence of electroactivity changes, during the process and after finishing it. Method: We have recorded a continual polygraph EEG, before, in time and after EMDR therapy, in patient who had PTSD. Results: The EEG before treatment showed background activity low voltage 20-30 μV, 12-13 Hz frequency, bioccipital, without pathological activity. Patient had prominent vegetative symptoms (anxiety, heart rate 100/min). Background activity after treatment showed voltage about 50 μV, frequency dominant 12 Hz which showed reduction of anxiety, and reduction of vegetative disturbance.

Keywords: Electrophysiological Changes

Accuracy Verified: Yes

51. Grbesa, G., Simonovic, M., & Jankovic, D. (2010, April). Electrophysiological changes during EMDR treatment in patients with combat-related PTSD. Annals of General Psychiatry, 9(Supplement 1), S209. doi:10.1186/1744-859X-9-S1-S209.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
1st International Congress on Neurobiology and Clinical Psychopharmacology and European Psychiatric Association Conference on Treatment Guidance
Background Efficiency of the EMDR procedure is based on a presumption of neuropsychological changes in therapeutic process.The aim of the investigation is to scann and give evidence of electroactivity changes, during the process of EMDR procedure and after finishing it. Materials and methods We have recorded a continual polygraph EEG, before, during and after EMDR therapy, in patient with combat-related PTSD. Results Before the treatment, EEG recorded basic activity of low voltage (attenuation) of 20 μV, frequency of beta range (17-26 Hz), bioccipital, with no pathologic activity. Patient had prominent vegetative symptoms (anxiety, heart rate 100/min). Background activity immediately after the treatment records the amplitude values of around 50 μV, frequency of around 11-12 Hz. After the end of the treatment background activity possesses the amplitude value of about 37 μV, holding the persistence in frequency. Conclusions If the EMDR treatment is successful, sudden increase of amplityde activity is noted imensly. This sharp border line, which signifies normal activity, appears in 2-3 seconds affter the desensitize phase. The investigation suggest that from neurophysiological point of view, cortex (in EMDR procedure), works according to the principle "all or nothing". If there is processing of traumatic memory, the activity gets completly normal. If the therapy is not successful, there are numerous artefacts, because of increased muscle activity. This kind of activity, in our investigation is marked as "Artefact therapy". The results, indicate maintaining low level of amplitude values of electrocortical activities during the treatment, as well as increase after successful treatment. The increase of amlitude is corelated to decrease of anxiety after the successful treatment. Acknowledgements The results, indicate maintaining low level of amplitude values of electrocortical activities during the treatment, as well as increase after successful treatment. The increase of amlitude is corelated to decrease of anxiety after the successful treatment. References EEG Asymmetry and its Clinical Correlates in PTSD, Steven Silverstein, Stewart Shankman Lea Williams, Patrick Hopkinson, Richard Bryant

Keywords: Combat Electrophysiological Change Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

52. Carlson, J. G., Chemtob, C. M., Rusnak, K., Hedlund, N. L., & Muroaka, M. Y. (1995, June). EMDR in combat-related PTSD: A controlled study. Presentation at the EMDR Network Conference, Santa Monica, CA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
In view of potential, but largely undocumented benefits of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) as an intervention for PTSD in combat veterans, in our laboratory a study of EMDR treatment included (1) randomized patient assignment, (2) clinically appropriate comparison (treatment and control) groups, (3) a 12-session EMDR protocol administered by experienced, EMDR trained clinicians, and (4) extensive clinical assessment, including physiological evaluation at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 3-month follow-up. Thirty-five veterans who met DSM-IV criteria for PTSD completed an extensive multimodal assessment protocol. Assessment instruments included: The Mississippi Scale for Combat-Related PTSD, the Impact of Events Scale (IES), the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), a self-rating of overall severity of "PTSD symptoms," the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Spielberger State and Trait Anxiety Inventories (STAI). In addition, each subject completed a Stressful Scene Construction Questionnaire (SSCQ) in which scripts of specific traumatic combat incidents were prepared for presentation during psychophysiological assessment. Following pre-assessment, a subset of the subjects constituted a waiting list control (CON, N = 12). Routine clinical care for these subjects was available at the VA Medical Center. Seven of these subjects also participated in group sessions for discussion of PTSD designed as an attentional control. There were no differences between the two control subgroups and their data was combined for all subsequent analyses. For the treatment groups, subjects assigned to the EMDR (EMD, N = 10) and relaxation (RXT, N = 13) groups were seated in a semi-reclined chair and continuous measures were taken of muscle tension levels (four sites), hand temperature, skin conductance levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. For all subjects, there were 20 minutes in each of the baseline sessions with no additional stimuli presented. At the end of session 2 of baseline, the patients remained in the experimental room and were assessed for an additional 20 minutes (pre-treatment) during which the SSCQ scripts also were presented. There were two sessions per week with a minimum of one day between sessions. Each subsequent treatment session for the EMD and RXT subjects was approximately 60 minutes in duration, allowing for set-up time and briefing. In the EMD group, a standard protocol for the EMDR interventions was administered, including periodic SUDS ratings and VoC scaling of combat and related images and cognitions (cf Shapiro, 1995). In the RXT group, home relaxation tapes and biofeedback on four sites (face, neck, arm, and back) to assist lowered muscle tension were provided. Following 12 treatment sessions (post-treatment), and again after three months (follow-up) the psychometric instruments and psychophysiological assessment were readministered using the format outlined above. Relative to the other conditions, the EMDR treatment produced substantially more positive clinical effects at post-treatment and follow-up. Comparing the EMD group to the CON group, significant effects (p<.05 or better) were obtained on measures of PTSD including the Mississippi and PTSD symptoms self-rating, and on the Beck and STAI-Trait. Comparing the EMD group to the RXT subjects, significant differences were found on the Mississippi, the IES-Intrusion scale, the CAPS, PTSD symptoms ratings, and the STAI-Trait scale. No differences were obtained on any of the physiological measures. Therefore, the present results support the effectiveness of EMDR with combat veterans with chronic PTSD. The data strongly suggest that some previous negative results obtained when EMDR was applied to chronic and severe combat PTSD may have resulted from methodological artifacts, such as inadequate amount of treatment and therapist inexperience. While the failure to find physiological effects is consistent with results of other controlled treatment exposure trials in PTSD, this finding raises clinical and conceptual questions with respect to the arousal component of the disorder.

Keywords: Combat Controlled Study

Accuracy Verified: Yes

53. Beer, R. (2006). EMDR in de behandeling van jongeren met een eetstoornis [EMDR in the treatment of adolescents with an eating disorder]. Kinder- & Jeugdpsychotherapie, 33(3), 54-64.

Language: Dutch

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eetstoornissen zijn ernstige ziektebeelden met een grote kans op een chronisch beloop, hoge morbiditeitcijfers en veel co-morbiditeit (van Elburg & Rijken, 2004). In de DSM IV worden verschillende eetstoornissen onderscheiden: Anorexia Nervosa, Boulimia Nervosa en Eetstoornis Niet Anders Omschreven. Eetstoornissen komen meestal tot bloei tijdens de adolescentie. Bij Anorexia Nervosa ligt de piek van het ontstaan tussen veertien en achttien jaar, Boulimia Nervosa begint doorgaans pas na het zestiende jaar (Robbe e.a., 1999; Fleminger, 2002; Vandereyken & Noordenbos, 2002). Anorexia Nervosa (AN) heeft het hoogste mortaliteitspercentage van alle psychiatrische stoornissen en bij adolescenten staat het op de derde plaats in de rij van meest voorkomende stoornissen. Behandelingsresultaten zijn weinig bemoedigend (Vandereyken & Noordenbos, 2002). Voor AN is nog geen ‘evidence based’ behandeling voorhanden. Zie: National Institute of Clinical Excellence (2004) en de Multidisciplinaire Richtlijn Eetstoornissen (2006). Behandelaars zijn daarom nog steeds op zoek naar nieuwe invalshoeken. Op de afdeling jeugdpsychiatrie van het Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht is een zorgprogramma eetstoornissen ontwikkeld, waarmee jongeren met AN en met een Eetstoornis NAO worden behandeld door een multidisciplinair team2. Zie voor een beschrijving van dit programma: van Elburg & Rijken (2004). Tijdens mijn werkzaamheden voor deze afdeling (2000-2005) heb ik hieraan mogen bijdragen door het implementeren van cognitieve gedragstherapie en EMDR als potentiële onderdelen van een breed-spectrum behandeling. Een beschrijving van een protocol voor cognitieve gedragstherapie is in voorbereiding ( Beer & Tobias). In dit artikel wordt beschreven hoe EMDR kan worden ingezet bij de behandeling van jongeren met een eetstoornis. De hier beschreven experimentele status. De voorgestelde mogelijkheden zijn weliswaar uitgeprobeerd door meerdere psychotherapeuten, maar van systematische toetsing is nog geen sprake geweest. Een gedetailleerde beschrijving en theoretische onderbouwing van de voorgestelde toepassing van EMDR is eveneens in voorbereiding (Beer & Hornsveld). In dit artikel wordt besproken waarom (theoretisch kader), hoe (aangrijpingspunten) en wanneer (timing) EMDR kan worden ingezet. Na een aantal illustratieve behandelfragmenten wordt besproken waarom het juist voor jongeren een waardevolle module kan zijn in een multidisciplinaire behandeling (toegevoegde waarde). Afgesloten wordt met een conclusie.

Eating disorders are serious illnesses with a high risk of chronic course, high morbidity rates and many co-morbidity (Elburg & Rich, 2004). The DSM IV eating disorders several distinguished: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. Eating disorders usually come to fruition during adolescence. In Anorexia Nervosa is the peak of emergence between fourteen and eighteen, Bulimia Nervosa usually begins after the age of sixteen (Robbe et al, 1999; Fleminger, 2002; Vander Eyken & Noorden, 2002). Anorexia Nervosa (AN) has the highest mortality rate of all psychiatric disorders and among adolescents is on the third row of the most common disorders. Treatment results are very encouraging (Vander Eyken & Noorden, 2002). AN is no "evidence based treatment available. See: National Institute of Clinical Excellence (2004) and Multidisciplinary Directive Eating Disorders (2006). Clinicians are therefore still looking for new angles. The adolescent psychiatry department at the University Medical Center Utrecht is an eating disorder care program developed for young people with AN and with an ED-NOS treated by a multidisciplinary team2. For a description of this program from Elburg & Rich (2004). During my work on this section (2000-2005) I have this may contribute by implementing cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR as potential components of a broad-spectrum treatment. A description of a protocol for CBT in preparation (Beer & Tobias). This article describes how EMDR can be used in the treatment of adolescents with eating disorders. The described experimental state. The options proposed are indeed tested by several therapists, but systematic review has not been a case. A detailed description and theoretical underpinning of the proposed use of EMDR is also in preparation (Beer & Horn Field). This article discusses why (theoretical framework), how (targets) and when (timing) EMDR can be used. After several treatments illustrative excerpts discuss why it is a valuable youth module in a multidisciplinary treatment (value added). Completed with a conclusion.

Keywords: Adolscents Eating Disorders

Accuracy Verified: Yes

54. McGoldrick, T., Brown, K., & Begum, M. (2011, March). EMDR in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder & olfactory reference syndrome: A case series. Symposium conducted at the 9th annual Conference of the EMDR UK & Ireland, Bristol.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and a related condition Olfactory Reference Syndrome (ORS) have been debated for over a century regarding their nosology and treatment. Recent reviews suggest a variable response to various pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. The effects of EMDR on such cases have not yet been sufficiently explored. Here we present 18 cases of both these conditions with a high success rate using EMDR. We explore the relationship between them and offer a hypothesis to explain the aetiology based on the Adaptive Information Processing Model (AIP).

Keywords: BDD Body Dysmorphic Disorder Olfactory Reference Syndrome ORS Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

55. Yordy, J. (2012, April). EMDR techniques to help children and teens tame the worry monster. Presentation at the annual meeting of EMDR Canada, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
The number of children and teens struggling with symptoms of stress and anxiety disorders is increasing at an alarming rate. This workshop will discuss some causes for the increase in stress and anxiety disorders among children and teens. An introduction to the Triune Brain Theory and brief explanation of the implications of the changes on the anxious child or teenage brain will be highlighted. Next, effective exercises to calm the body and rewire the brain will be introduced. Creating new neural pathways, through the use of Positive Resource Building utilizing EMDR, will also be taught. Looking specifically at anxiety and how to target it when using EMDR, will also be explored. The workshop will conclude by introducing how to shrink the “Worry Monster” using an EMDR protocol.
Learning objectives: 1.Describe the Triune Brain Theory and how trauma rewires the brain to create heightened levels of anxiety and stress. 2.Demonstrate 5 exercises which help calm the stress response within the body. 3.List 5 “Positive Resources ”which when combined with EMDR anchor calm feelings in the brain/body and rewire the brain. 4.Discuss how to chose appropriate targets for EMDR processing with anxious kids. 5.Describe how to create a “Worry Monster” for processing anxiety with EMDR.

Keywords: Adolescents Anxiety Children

Accuracy Verified: Yes

56. Shapiro, F. (2000). EMDR ten years after its introduction: A review of past, present, and future directions. Mental Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, 1-15.

Language: English

Format: Other

Abstract:
At the time a controlled study of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was introduced in a peerreviewed journal (Shapiro, 1989a) as a method for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) only one other controlled clinical outcome study of this disorder had been published (Peniston, 1986). The Peniston (1986) study compa.red 45 sessions of relaxation and biofeedback-assisted desensitization to a non-treatment control and reported significant differences in muscle tension and in unstandardized measures of nightmares and anxiety. In the same year as the Shapiro study, three other controlled PTSD studies were published (Brom, Kleber, & Defares, 1989; Cooper & Clum, 1989; Keane, Fairklank, Caddell, & Zimering, 1989). The Brom et al. (1989) study compared the results of psychodynamic therapy, hypnotherapy, and desensitization based on a mean of 16 sessions. Equivalent (small to moderate) clinical treatment effects were obtained with all three approaches in approximately 60% of the subjects as assessed by various measures. The Cooper and Clun? (1989) study compared flooding to standard VA care and reported small clinical effects after 6-14 sessions, with a 30% partiicipant drop-out rate. The Keane et al. (1989) study compared flooding to a wait-list control and reported small clinical effects after 14-16 sessions. In contrast to the preceding three studies, Shapiro (1989a) found very substantial treatment effects with EMDR (then called 'EMD") after only one session.

Keywords: Review

Accuracy Verified: Yes

57. Holmshaw, M. (2004, February). EMDR treatment of travel phobia after road traffic incidents (RTI). Presentation at the 2nd annual Conference of the EMDR UK & Ireland Association, Birmingham, UK.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Road Traffic Incidents are the most common cause of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) in the UK. Travel phobia is a frequent comorbid condition in these cases and in some cases the primary disorder with which clients present. This paper addresses the systematic treatment of travel phoia after RTIs, highlighting the following: assessment and preparation for treatment with the emphasis on safety and resource installation; common themes or treatment targets to be addressed with EMDR; common blocking beliefs which prevent treatment progress and practical homework tasks to be used in conjunction with future templates. The aim of the paper is to offer a focused approach to the treatment of travel phobia with or without PTSD which has a high success rate in the author's experience.

Keywords: Road Traffic Incidents RTI Travel Phobia

Accuracy Verified: Yes

58. Jacobs, S., de Jong, A., & Strack, M. (2007). EMDR und biofeedback in der therapie posttraumatischer belastungsstörungen: Evaluation eines neuropsychotherapeutischen behandlungsprogramms [EMDR and biofeedback in the therapy of posttraumatic stress disorder: Evaluation of a neuropsychotherapeutic intervention]. VPP - Verhaltenstherapie & Psychosoziale Praxis, 39(4), 855-876.

Language: German

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eine neu entwickelte multimodale, neuropsychotherapeutic Programm für die Behandlung der Posttraumatischen Belastungsstörung (PTBS) wurde ausgewertet. Ausgehend von neueren Erkenntnissen in der Forschung neuroscienctific, so dass eine Dissoziation zwischen impliziter und expliziter Trauma-Speicher die wichtigste Grundlage der PTBS ist, verschiedene Module wurden im Rahmen der Behandlung integriert anzuzeigen. Die vereinigten Komponenten sind: spezifische Hintergrundinformationen über die Unordnung und typische PTSD-Symptome, eine pädagogische Film für Patienten, spezifische kognitive Verhaltenstherapie und Biofeedback-Techniken unterstützte Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Das Ziel der Biofeedback-Sitzungen während EMDR ist es, den Patienten eine direkte Rückmeldung über die implizite Prozesse während der Trauma-Exposition. Darüber hinaus Erfassung der physiologischen Daten über Biofeedback ermöglicht das Testen, ob es eine Korrelation zwischen dem Grad der subjektiven Belastung durch traumatische Erinnerungen ausgelöst (quantifiziert mit der SUD-Skala), und messbare physiologische Erregung. Elektrodermale Aktivität (EDA; Hautleitfähigkeit) wurde als eine physiologische Parameter gemessen. Die Ergebnisse einer durchgeführten Pilot-Studie (16 Patienten auf der Grundlage, mit einem wartenden Gruppe als Kontrollgruppe) zeigen verschiedene EDA-Muster während EMDR-desensitivation (fad und assoziative Wiederaufbereitung). Ein offensichtlich Reduktion der PTBS-Symptome gefunden (d = 2,27) sein, die stärker ist als in anderen Behandlungen. Die traumatischen Erinnerungen mit EMDR behandelt wurde weniger Anstrengung, die ebenfalls reflektiert in der Physiologie (verminderte autonome Erregung) und in der subjektiven Belastung fühlte sich durch die Patienten. Die Kürzungen der Erregung (d = 1,01) und subjektive Belastung (d = 2,55) zeigen, dass eine effektive Hemmung der Aktivierung der Amygdala-und damit der Angstreaktion selbst-aufgrund der Intervention geschaffen. Mit EMDR reduziert die Amygdala physiologische Erregung. Wir vermuten, dass aus diesem Grund den medialen präfrontalen Kortex und im Hippocampus kann eine kortikale Inhibition, die erfolgreich reduziert die Angst-Reaktion (Grawe, 2004) zu etablieren. Die berichteten Ergebnisse wurden durch einen dreimonatigen Follow-up-Bewertung bestätigt. Mit einer durchschnittlichen Dauer von 16 Sitzungen und einer nicht vorhandenen Drop-out-Rate (0%), die Intervention erwiesen sich ebenfalls als sehr effizient. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, alle Rechte vorbehalten)

A newly developed multimodal, neuropsychotherapeutic program for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was evaluated. Starting from recent findings in the neuroscienctific research, which indicate that a dissociation between implicit and explicit trauma-memory is the main basis of PTSD, different modules were integrated within the treatment. The combined components are: specific background information regarding the disorder and typical PTSD-symptoms, an educational movie for patients, specific cognitive behavioral intervention techniques and biofeedback-supported Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). The aim of using biofeedback during EMDR sessions is to give patients a direct feedback about the implicit processes during trauma-exposition. In addition, recording the physiological data via biofeedback allows testing if there is a correlation between the level of subjective strain, triggered by traumatic memories (quantified with the SUD-scale), and measurable physiological arousal. Electrodermal activity (EDA; skin conductance) was measured as a physiological parameter. The results of a conducted pilot-study (based on 16 patients, with a waiting group as a control group) show different EDA-patterns during EMDR-desensitivation (bland and associative reprocessing). An evident reduction of the PTSD-symptoms could be found (d = 2.27), which is stronger than in other treatments. The traumatic memories treated with EMDR became less straining, which reflects likewise in physiology (decreased autonomous arousal) and in the subjective strain felt by the patients. The reductions of arousal (d = 1.01) and subjective strain (d = 2.55) indicate that an effective inhibition of the amygdala activation—and thereby of the anxiety reaction itself—is created due to the intervention. Using EMDR reduces the amygdala induced physiological arousal. We suppose that for this reason the medial prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus can establish a cortical inhibition, which successfully reduces the anxiety reaction (Grawe, 2004). The reported results were confirmed by a three month follow-up evaluation. With an average duration of 16 sessions and a non-existing drop-out rate (0%), the intervention also proved to be very efficient. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)

Keywords: Biofeedback PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

59. Glenn, S. (2011, March). EMDR with deaf clients. Symposium conducted at the 9th annual Conference of the EMDR UK & Ireland, Bristol .

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This presentation will outline the utilisation of EMDR with deaf clients exploring the challenges it presents for clinicians whilst exploring the potential for EMDR. Through the use of case examples this session will outline the ways in which EMDR needs to be adapted for this population Many clinicians struggle with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with d/Deaf clients due to some of the abstract ideas used and the heavy reliance on spoken language. Many people, both hearing and deaf find it difficult to think about thinking, and develop levels of insight into their emotions and behaviours simply by talking about them. Deaf people experience trauma and abuse at a much higher rate than hearing people, but there are few established therapies to help them. As Deaf people do not pick up all of the auditory stimuli it is likely that the trauma or difficult experiences that bring them to therapy may have been stored visually or kinaesthetically rather than linguistically. Trauma may also be caused by smaller events due to lack of information available to them. EMDR is an evidence based therapy that attempts to resolve emotional reactions to traumatic memories and their triggers. It does this through a combination of physical stimulation and the recollection and discussion of memories. As such, it seems ideally suited for use with people who are Deaf and have experienced trauma in their past. I describe how EMDR lends itself for successful use with Deaf clients and their families, giving two brief case examples where I used EMDR with Deaf children in British Sign Language.

Keywords: Children Deafness Hearing Impairment

Accuracy Verified: Yes

60. Bertolotti, G. (2008, June). EMDR: Should be appropriate in a rehabilitation multidisciplinary programme?. Poster session presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, London, England.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Because EMDR is a powerful short-term therapy effective for confronting and overcoming stress, anxiety, and trauma which could be its role in an intensive rehabilitation multidisciplinary programme? As well-known PTSD is the most common diagnostic category used to describe symptoms arising from emotionally traumatic experience.This disorder presumes that the person experienced a traumatic event involving actual or threatened death or injury to themselves or others. Some research shows that EMDR is rapid, safe and effective in helping those who suffer from anxiety, distressing memories, nightmares, insomnia, as consequences from traumatic events. Several recent reviews have looked at the relationship between medical illness and subsequent PTSD. Moreover Spindler(2005) published a review with focal point on subjects after cardiovascular disease and mainly with a focus on prevalence rates, risk factors, and future. Should be possible catch a trauma event right through in-hospital and use the EMDR when appropriate? Hence how should be tailored an appropriate assessment procedures during the rehabilitation in-hospital? Anxiety (using a the STAI) and Depression (measured with Depression Questionnaire) with clinical cut-off score might be useful in screening and an adequately structured interview could complete in-hospital screening. In a more wide assessment screening a device for psychophysiological assessment measuring electrodermal activity and heart rate/pulse wave. An elevated cardiovascular and electrodermal activity during the interview should be an index for selecting a clinical simple of patients where carry out a deeper assessment in search for a trauma connect to the pre-rehabilitation period or older. The aforementioned could be a wished-for screen subjects with trauma events both at short or long term insurgence.

Keywords: Rehabilitation Multidisciplinarian Program

Accuracy Verified: Yes

61. Pitman, R., Orr, S., Altman, B., Longpre, R., Poire, R., Macklin, M., Michaels, M. J., & Steketee, G. S. (1996, November-December). Emotional processing and outcome of imaginal flooding therapy in Vietnam veterans with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder. Comprehensive Psychiatry, 37(6), 409-418. doi:10.1016/S0010-440X(96)90025-5.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
This study examined emotional processing and outcome in 20 Vietnam veterans with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who underwent imaginal flooding therapy. Results supported the occurrence of emotional processing, as manifest in significant activation, within-session habituation, and partial across-session habituation of physiologic and self-reported process variables. The flooding therapy produced only modest overall improvement, which was statistically significant for avoidance symptomatology measured by the Impact of Events Scale (TOES) and number of intrusions per day recorded by the subject in a log. Symptomatic improvement appeared to generalize from a treated to an untreated experience. Heart rate activation during the first flooding session predicted a decrease in daily number of intrusive combat memories across the therapy. Otherwise, there was little association between extent of emotional processing and therapeutic outcome. The results provide limited support for the notion that mobilization of phychophysiologic arousal during exposure therapy predicts improvement. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Emotional Processing Flooding Therapy Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Vietnam Veterans

Accuracy Verified: Yes

62. Sack, M., Lempa, W., & Lamprecht, F. (2005, September 24). Empirische befunde zu wirkmechanismen des EMDR [Empirical evidence of mechanisms of action of EMDR]. In A. Karl & W. Lempa, (Moderators), Symposium 2 Traumaspezifische Interventionen in Forschung und Praxis, Jahrestagung der deutschsprachigen Gesellschaft für Psychotraumatologie DeGPT, Dresden .

Language: German

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Das Traumabearbeitungsverfahren EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) kombiniert die imaginäre Exposition mit der traumatischen Erinnerung mit repetitiver Stimulation durch Augenbewegungen oder durch taktile bzw. auditive Reize. Während die Wirksamkeit des EMDR gut belegt ist, sind die spezifischen Wirkungen der bilateralen Stimulation noch weitgehend unbekannt. Wir führten ein psychophysiologisches Monitoring mittels Impedanzkardiographie aller EMDR-Behandlungssitzungen ( N= 55) bei 10 Patienten mit PTSD durch. Aufgezeichnet wurden Herzfrequenz (HR), Parasympathikotonus (RMSSD), Sympathikotonus (PEP), und Atemfrequenz (RESP). Beginn und Ende der Stimulationsperioden (N = 811) wurden markiert. Es fand sich ein steiler Anstieg des Parasympathikotonus verbunden mit einem signifikanten Abfall der Herzfrequenz zu Beginn der Stimulationsperioden, entsprechend dem psychophysiologischen Reaktionsmuter einer deutlich ausgeprägten Orientierungsreaktion. Im weiteren Verlauf der Stimulation nahm der Parasympathikotonus wieder ab und der Sympathikotonus nahm zu, was sich als Stresseffekt während der Exposition interpretieren lässt. Im Sitzungsverlauf zeigte sich jedoch eine signifikante Abnahme der Herzfrequenz und eine Zunahme des Parasympathikotonus. Unsere Befunde weisen darauf hin, dass es während EMDR-Sitzungen zu einem signifikanten psychophysiologischen Dearousal kommt. Die Stimulation durch Augenbewegungen scheint eine Orientierungsreaktion auszulösen, die über eine passagere Erhöhung des Parasympathikotonus eine Entspannungsreaktion auslöst. Es stellt sich die Frage, inwieweit die von uns beobachteten psychophysiologischen Reaktionen mit dem Therapieerfolg korrelieren.[Author abstract]

The EMDR trauma processing method (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) combines the imaginary exposure to the traumatic memory with repetitive stimulation of eye movements or tactile or auditory stimuli. While the effectiveness of EMDR is well documented, the specific effects of bilateral stimulation are still largely unknown. We conducted a psycho-physiological monitoring using impedance cardiography of EMDR treatment sessions (N = 55) of 10 patients with PTSD. Recorded were heart rate (HR), parasympathetic tone (RMSSD), sympathetic (PEP) and respiratory rate (RESP). Beginning and end of the stimulation periods (N = 811) were selected. There was a steep increase in parasympathetic tone associated with a significant decrease in heart rate at the beginning of the stimulation periods, according to the psycho-physiological Reaktionsmuter a clearly marked orientation reaction. In the course of the stimulation of the parasympathetic tone took off again and the sympathetic tone increased, which can be interpreted as a stress effect during exposure. During the session, however, showed a significant decrease in heart rate and an increase in parasympathetic tone. Our findings indicate that occurs during EMDR sessions to significant psychophysiological Dearousal. The stimulation of eye movements seems to trigger a policy response that triggers a transient increase in parasympathetic tone a relaxation response. This begs the question of the extent to which we have observed psychophysiological responses correlate with treatment success. [Author abstract]

Keywords: Mechanism of Action

Accuracy Verified: Yes

63. O'Brien, E. (1993, November/December). The enigma of EMDR: Pushing the panic button. Family Therapy Networker, 17(6), 33-39.

Language: English

Format: Magazine

Abstract:
When she first heard about EMDR, and the CWMS about its high success rate with agoraphobics, I thought, 'Yeah, right-I just roll my eyeballs around and suddenly I'm cured!" That this trendy, new technique could end almost 20 years of paralyzing fear and dread seemed doubtful, to put it mildly. I'd already experienced enough standard, name-brand therapies and assorted snake-oil cures to become a one-woman encyclopedia of clinical failures. So my cynicism about this latest entry in the cure-all sweepstakes was almost, almost as great as my desperation to try anything once. Desperation won out by a hair. Nothing, I thought, not even putting myself through the paces of another half-baked new fad, could be as bad as what I was going through now, and what I had been through, off and on, for the last 18years of my life.

Keywords: Panic

Accuracy Verified: Yes

64. Des Groseilliers, I. B. (2009, June). Évaluation longitudinale de l'efficacité d'une nouvelle intervention dyadique, brève et précoce visant la prévention du TSPT [Longitudinal evaluation of the effectiveness of a new intervention dyadic brief and early for the prevention of PTSD]. Université du Québec à Montréal.

Language: French

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
La présente thèse s'intéresse à l'évaluation de l'efficacité à court et à long terme d'une nouvelle intervention dyadique, brève et précoce ayant pour but la prévention du trouble de stress post-traumatique (TSPT). L'exposition à un événement traumatique provoque, chez certains individus, une souffrance émotionnelle considérable qui entrave leur fonctionnement quotidien de manière parfois importante. Au cours des deux dernières décennies, des interventions curatives efficaces ont été créées, soit la thérapie cognitive-comportementale (TCC) et la désensibilisation par mouvement oculaire (EMDR). On remarque cependant un manque criant d'interventions efficaces à court et à long terme qui ont pour but la prévention du TSPT, malgré les efforts du débriefing et de la TCC brève en ce sens. Cette thèse vise donc, dans un premier temps, à faire le point sur l'état des connaissances au niveau de l'efficacité des interventions précoces et, dans un deuxième temps, évaluer de manière empirique l'efficacité à moyen (3 mois) et surtout à long terme (2 ans) d'une nouvelle intervention dyadique, brève et précoce pour prévenir le TSPT. La nouvelle intervention dont il est question dans le présent ouvrage se déroule en deux séances et est offerte à la victime et une personne-soutien de son choix par une travailleuse sociale ou une infirmière. Elle met l'accent sur la psychoéducation, l'apprentissage à la communication exempte de soutien social négatif (minimisation, hostilité, impatience, etc.) et sur l'importance de ne pas éviter les stimuli associés à l'événement traumatique. La thèse comporte quatre chapitres. Le premier propose une recension de la littérature qui met à jour les principales conclusions quant à l'efficacité du débriefing et de la TCC brève pour prévenir le TSPT. Cette recension met en évidence les principales failles méthodologiques et les difficultés d'application de ces interventions. De plus, elle expose le rationnel derrière l'utilisation du soutien social comme ingrédient actif d'une intervention de prévention de ce trouble. Le second chapitre présente une étude d'efficacité randomisée et contrôlée de l'efficacité de la nouvelle intervention. Soixante-six participants ont été randomisés soit dans la condition intervention ou dans la condition de contrôle. Les résultats ont démontré qu'au post-test de trois mois, les participants de la condition intervention manifestaient des symptômes de TSPT significativement moins intenses que ceux de la condition contrôle. De plus, les participants de la condition intervention rapportent une diminution significative du soutien social perçu, contrairement aux participants de la condition de contrôle qui n'observent pas cette différence. Il est intéressant de souligner que le taux d'abandons en cours de traitement fut équivalent et très bas au sein des deux groupes. Ceci suggère que les participants tolèrent bien cette nouvelle intervention. Aucune différence n'a été observée entre les deux groupes en ce qui a trait à l'occurrence de psychopathologies comorbides. Le troisième chapitre se veut une relance à 2 ans post-trauma de l'étude présentée au chapitre précédent. Quarante-six des 66 participants ont accepté de prendre part à cette relance. Les résultats révèlent que, deux ans après l'événement traumatique, les participants ayant reçu l'intervention étaient encore beaucoup moins symptomatiques que les participants n'ayant pas reçu cette intervention. Un fait plus qu'intéressant qui ressort de cette étude est qu'aucun participant de la condition intervention ne rapporte un TSPT et cinq participants de la condition contrôle souffrent encore de ce trouble deux ans après l'événement traumatique. Parallèlement, il a été observé que les participants ayant reçu l'intervention perçoivent encore moins de soutien social négatif que ceux de la condition contrôle. À l'instar de ce qui a été rapporté au post-test de trois mois, les deux groupes ne révèlent pas de différence significative par rapport à la manifestation d'autres affections psychologiques. Le quatrième et dernier chapitre propose une discussion générale des résultats en fonction des interprétations qui peuvent en être tirées, des différentes forces et limites intrinsèques ainsi que des implications théoriques et cliniques qui peuvent en découler.

This thesis focuses on the evaluation of the effectiveness in the short and long-term reoperation dyadic brief and early aimed at the prevention of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Exposure to a traumatic event causes in some individuals, suffering considerable emotional hinders their daily operations be significant. Over the past two decades, effective curative interventions were created either cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization (EMDR). We note, however, a dearth of effective interventions in the short and long-term aim of preventing PTSD, despite the efforts of debriefing and brief CBT in this direction. This thesis therefore aims, firstly, to take stock of the state of knowledge at the effectiveness of early interventions, and in a second step, empirically assess the efficacy medium (3 months) especially in the long term (2 years) of a new intervention dyadic brief early to prevent PTSD. The new intervention mentioned in this book takes place in two sessions and is offered to the victim and a support person of their choice by a social worker or nurse. It focuses on psychoeducation, learning to communicate free of negative social support (minimization, hostility, impatience, etc..) And the importance of not avoiding stimuli associated with the traumatic event. The thesis consists of four chapters. The first provides a literature review that updates the main conclusions about the effectiveness of debriefing and brief CBT to prevent PTSD. This review highlights the main methodological flaws and difficulties in implementing these interventions. In addition, it outlines the rationale behind the use of social support as an active ingredient of an intervention to prevent this disorder. The second chapter presents an efficacy study randomized controlled effectiveness of the new intervention. Sixty-six participants were randomized to either intervention or condition in the control condition. The results showed that post-test three months, participants in the condition action had symptoms of PTSD significantly less intense than those of the control condition. In addition, participants reported response provided a significant reduction in perceived social support, unlike the members of the control condition who do not observe this difference. It is interesting to note that the dropout rate during treatment was low and similar in both groups. This suggests that participants tolerate this new intervention. No difference was observed between the two groups in regard to the occurrence of comorbid psychopathology. The third chapter is a raise to 2 years post-trauma of the study presented in the previous chapter. Forty-six of the 66 participants agreed to take part in this revival. The results show that two years after the traumatic event, participants who received the intervention were still much less symptomatic than participants who did not receive this intervention. A more than interesting fact that emerges from this study is that no participant intervention condition reported PTSD and five participants from the control condition still suffer from this disorder two years after the traumatic event. Meanwhile, it was observed that participants who received the intervention perceive less social support than the negative control condition. Like what has been reported in post-test three months, the two groups did not show a significant difference in the expression of other psychological ailments. The fourth and final chapter provides a general discussion of the results based on interpretations that can be drawn, different strengths and inherent limitations as well as theoretical and clinical implications that may arise.

Keywords: CBT Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Dyadic Intervention Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

65. Aubert-Khalfa, S., Roques, J., & Blin, O. (2008). Evidence of a decrease in heart rate and skin conductance responses in PTSD patients after a single EMDR session. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 2(1), 51-56. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.2.1.51.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Patients with PTSD demonstrate abnormal psychophysiological responses to stressful events. Given that eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy appears to be a treatment of choice for trauma victims, the aim of the present study was to determine if psychophysiological responses to stress decreased after a single EMDR session. 6 PTSD patients were treated by an EMDR therapist. Their psychophysiological responses (heart rate and skin conductance) were recorded before and after the EMDR session under two conditions: (a) in a relaxed state and (b) while visualizing their own traumatic event. At the end of the session, all patients had a significant reduction in their PTSD symptoms, which confirms previous results demonstrating the efficacy of the EMDR approach. Second, after only one EMDR session, heart rate and skin conductance during the trauma recall decreased significantly as compared to a relaxing state. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adults Arousal Clinical Trial Electrodermal Activity Empirical Study French Heart Rate Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiology PTSD Quantitative Study Skin Conductance Stressors Survivors Treatment Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

66. Capps, F. (2005). The EXACT method: Resolution of substance abuse-related trauma in couples counseling utilizing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX. AAT 3173700.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
This study utilized single session EMDR (Shapiro, 1995, 2002) and the Experiential Approach to Couples Treatment (EXACT method) to target substance abuse related trauma in non-dependent partners (NDPs) of former substance abusers. Chemical dependent partners (CDPs) received simultaneous experiential treatment. Treatment effects and maintenance of treatment between experimental and wait-list control groups were examined for trauma reduction, commitment to sobriety, and emotional intimacy. Correlations among intimacy, emotional quality, between and commitment to sobriety were examined. Meta-analyses informed the literature review and described the gold standards (Foa & Meadows, 1997) which were used to rate controlled research. The Emogram (Priesmeyer, Knickerbocker, Comstock, & Mudge, 2001) was used for pre-posttest comparisons. This study met the gold standards at a rating of seven (RGS = 7.0). The sample consisted of 12 couples (N = 24) drawn from adult volunteers who met screening criteria. Data was analyzed using within subjects multivariate analyses of variance with repeated measures, and Pearson product-moment correlations. Trauma-related symptoms were significantly reduced for NDPs. Commitment to sobriety was measured by anxiety and depression symptoms which were significantly reduced for chemical dependent partners (CDPs). Trauma, anxiety, and depression reductions were maintained for all participants at follow-up. Maintenance of gains in commitment to sobriety and in emotional intimacy for CDPs failed to reject the null hypotheses. Measures of Self Disclosure, Love and Affection, and Personal Validation were significantly correlated, but were not significantly correlated to Trust or to Emotional Quality. No significant relationship was found between Emotional Quality and Commitment to Sobriety or between Emotional Quality and Emotional Intimacy for CDPs. Conclusions include that a single session of the treatment was efficacious for trauma, anxiety, and depression reduction and for increased commitment to sobriety and intimacy. Treatment gains for trauma, anxiety, and depression reduction were maintained. Commitment to sobriety and emotional intimacy gains tended to be maintained but were not significant. Intimacy measures tended to be related to each other, but relationships among other measures were not significant. Recommendations include larger sample sizes, additional variables of study, and lengthening follow-ups. Comparative treatment methods are recommended. Future research should include families. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved) Dissertation Abstracts International Section A: Humanities and Social Sciences. 66(4-A), 2005, pp. 1282.

Keywords: Counseling Couples Drug Abuse Emotional Trauma Empirical Study Quantitative Study

Accuracy Verified: Yes

67. Schottenbauer, M. A. (2006). Expert therapists and practicing clinicians: Reported prototypical treatments of trauma. The Catholic University of America. AAT 3239353.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
PTSD is a frequent psychiatric response to a variety of extreme psychological stressors. While several effective treatments for PTSD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) have been included on lists of empirically supported treatments, nonresponse rates to these treatments can be high. According to patient report, psychodynamic interventions are more common than CBT for PTSD in the community, yet only one randomized controlled trial has included a psychodynamic treatment for PTSD. This dissertation reviews the treatment dropout and non-response rates in studies of empirically supported treatments for PTSD. Next, a case for the value of psychodynamic treatment of PTSD is made, utilizing empirical research on links between the psychopathology of PTSD and psychodynamic concepts such as defenses and relationship patterns. Then, an empirical study was conducted to find out how psychodynamic and CBT therapists treat patients with PTSD, to discover commonalities and defining characteristics of treatment within each group of respondents, and to delineate the unique contributions of psychodynamic psychotherapy to the treatment of such patients.Therapists who identified themselves primarily with psychodynamic/psychoanalytic or cognitive-behavioral theoretical orientations were recruited online through professional organization listservs. They were randomly presented one of four case studies, describing variations on trauma. Participants then completed a Psychotherapy Process Q-Sort to describe quantitatively their ideal treatment of the given patient. Results indicated many similarities among clinicians of widely different perspectives. Among clinicians who indicated that their primary theoretical orientation was psychodynamic, three prototypical treatments were discovered, and among clinicians who indicated that their primary theoretical orientation was cognitive-behavioral, four prototypical treatments were found. Overall, the prototypes in the current study were correlated with, but not identical to, prototypes of PD, CBT, or interpersonal therapy (IPT) developed in previous studies based on experts' ratings. While the literature has suggested that clinicians who treat patients who have PTSD may make alterations in their techniques to address issues that are specific to PTSD, the current study provides some evidence that therapists are not aware of how their treatment for trauma is different from the theoretical approaches they endorse. [Author Abstract] Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 67(10-B), 2007, pp. 6077.

Keywords: Cognitive Therapy Empirical Study Health Personnel Attitudes Mental Health Personnel Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Psychotherapeutic Processes PTSD Quantitative Study

Accuracy Verified: Yes

68. de Bok, D., & van Daalen, M. (2010, June). Exploring the mechanism underlying the working memory account of EMDR: The effect of fading in and fading out of negative and arousing images on emotionality, vividness, vividness, completeness and detail recall of traumatic memories. Utrecht, Nederlands: Universiteit Utrecht.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychological intervention for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Currently, the working memory account gives the best explanation for the functionality of EMDR. This account states that conducting a dual task, mostly horizontal eye movements, while retrieving a traumatic memory will make this memory less emotional, vivid and complete. It was hypothesized that the fading in and/or fading out of traumatic images are in itself causally contributing to the reduced emotionality, vividness and completeness of the recalled memories. This experimental study (N=27) examined the fading in (the image starts vague and gets more clear) and fading out (the image starts clear and gets more vague) of traumatic images as an underlying mechanism of the working memory account. By using a within-subject design, participants engaged in three conditions (fading in, fading out and control) in which they had to rate their memories on emotionality, vividness and completeness. A detail recall test was also conducted for all conditions. No significant differences were found between the three conditions on emotionality, vividness and completeness. However, a trend was found indicating that fewer details were recalled in the fading out condition. Based on these results, the hypothesis that fading in or fading out will result in diminishing emotionality, vividness and completeness was not confirmed. Shortcomings of the experiment and implications for future research are addressed

Keywords: Fading in Fading out Traumatic Image Working Memory Account

Accuracy Verified: Yes

69. Taylor, S. (2003, October-November). Exposure therapy, EMDR and relaxation. In M. Creamer (Chair), PTSD treatment outcome predictors. Symposium conducted at the 19th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Chicago, IL .

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Several psychosocial treatments appear to be effective in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, little is known about the predictors of treatment outcome. It is possible that some variables predict poor outcome for some treatments but not for others. To investigate this issue, outcome predictors were examined for three 8-session treatments: Exposure therapy (entailing prolonged imaginal and in vivo exposure), relaxation training, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Sixty people with PTSD entered and 45 completed treatment. To our knowledge, ours was the first EMDR study to meet all the Foa and Meadows Gold Standards for methodologically sound outcome research. Treatments did not differ in attrition or perceived credibility. Predictors of treatment outcome in PTSD: While psychological treatments for PTSD have developed considerably in recent years, large variation in individual treatment response is apparent. This symposium integrates research from the USA, Canada, and Australia to examine the impact of personal characteristics, childhood abuse history, and treatment setting as predictors of response to cognitive behavioral interventions.

PTSD treatment outcome predictors: Exposure therapy, EMDR and relaxation: Exposure tended to be most effective, and EMDR and relaxation did not differ in efficacy. Low patient ratings of treatment credibility (assessed in session 2) predicted treatment dropout, regardless of treatment type. Of the potential outcome predictors examined, severe reexperiencing symptoms (assessed prior to treatment) predicted poor outcome for relaxation training but not for the other therapies. The best predictor of treatment outcome was whether or not patients received exposure therapy.

Keywords: Exposure Therapy PSTD Outcome Predictors Relaxation Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

70. Montgomery, R. W., & Ayllon, T. (1994, March). Eye movement desensitization across images: A single case design. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 25(1), 23-28. doi:10.1016/0005-7916(94)90059-0 .

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
The use of eye movement desensitization (EMD) was investigated in a multiple baseline across two images. The subject was diagnosed as suffering from PTSD and had suffered from two distinct traumas which continued to generate intrusive disturbing images. Dependent variables included self-report information (Subjective Units of Distress, behavioral symptoms reports) and physiological data (heart rate and systolic blood pressure). Subjective and physiological data both demonstrated significant changes during the course of treatment which were maintained at a 2-month follow-up. This study represents the first investigation of EMD with multiple images within a single subject experimental design. Findings suggest that generalization across the images under investigation was not demonstrated. EMD treatment gains were clinically significant. However, the immediate and profound effects often cited in the literature were not demonstrated. [Author Summary]

Keywords: Americans Assault Case Report Females Longitudinal Study Middle Aged Motor Traffic Accidents Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Survivors

Accuracy Verified: Yes

71. Montgomery, R. W., & Ayllon, T. (1994, September). Eye movement desensitization across subjects: Subjective and physiological measures of treatment efficacy. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 25(3), 217-230. doi:10.1016/0005-7916(94)90022-1.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization (EMD) was investigated in an experimental multiple baseline across subjects design. Six subjects who met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD were included in the study. While the EMD technique advanced by Shapiro has been reported to be clinically effective, major methodological issues have been raised which remain to be addressed. One issue raised is whether exposure to the traumatic image is sufficient to account for the reported clinical effects of EMD or whether the addition of saccadic eye movements is central to the treatment. This study attempted to address this concern by comparing two EMD-based procedures: a Non-saccade phase (without the saccadic eye movements) which functioned as a control and a second that included saccadic eye movements. Dependent variables included self-report information (SUDs, behavioral symptoms reports) and physiological data (heart rate and systolic blood pressure). The results showed no significant decreases in SUDs level with the EMD minus the saccadic eye movements procedure. However, five of the six subjects reported clinically significant decreases in their SUDs levels with the inclusion of the saccadic eye movements. This study appears to corroborate previous work employing single-case design as well as pre and postcomparisons. [Author Summary]

Keywords: Adults Americans Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiology PTSD Stressors Survivors Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

72. Balk, J. L. (2001, Nov 1). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for post-traumatic stress disorder. Alternative Medicine Alert, 4, 121-124.

Language: English

Format: Newsletter

Abstract:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a fairly common disorder. Roughly 8-10% of the population will suffer from PTSD at some point in their lives. For victims of violent crimes such as rape, the rate of PTSD may be 60-80%. (1) According to the DSM-IV, diagnostic criteria for PTSD include: 1) perceived or actual threat to life or physical integrity, accompanied by an emotional response of horror, helplessness, or intense fear; 2) re-experience of the trauma (e.g. flashbacks and nightmares); 3) avoidance of trauma-related stimuli and numbing of interest and affect; and 4) increased unwanted arousal, such as concentration difficulties, irritability, and insomnia. Specific criteria exist regarding the numbers of symptoms in each category that must be present.

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

73. Finley, P. A. (2002, April). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of sex offenders. Walden University, Minneapolis, MN. AAT 3068413.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Most sex offenders in treatment in the United States understand and adapt well to the predominantly cognitive/behavioral/relapse prevention (RP) aspects of their treatment. "No more victims" is the fundamental goal of sex offender treatment, and due to this focus on relapse prevention, most sex offenders do not adequately address their own emotional wounding from early trauma and victimization. This author believes these unresolved affective issues lead to the cognitive distortions and justifications that allow sex offenders to give themselves permission to offend in the first place. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic intervention that assists in rapidly resolving troubling thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Incorporating EMDR into the current cognitive/behavioral/relapse prevention (RP) treatment model for sex offender treatment opens the possibility of reducing the reoffense rate in society. In this study, affective issues of adult male sex offenders (n = 27) were addressed, employing EMDR; this comprised the experimental treatment group. The experimental group received a pretest, three EMDR sessions, and a posttest over an average time of 3.8 months. The Multiphasic Sex Inventory (MSI) was the measure used for this research. The three scales on that test designed to measure for thinking errors were: the Cognitive Distortion and Immaturity (CDI Scale; the Justification (Ju) Scale; and the Treatment Attitudes (TA) Scale. Archived pretest/posttest scores of randomly selected and anonymous adult male sex offenders comprised the control group (n = 27). This group was tested on the MSI and MSI 2 before entering Module 4 and after finishing Module 5, representing 22.5 months of treatment pretest/posttest. All control and experimental group subjects took part in a mandated cognitive/behavioral/relapse prevention (RP) program. The independent two-sample t test was used to compare two means utilizing the rate of change between the experimental and control group. The results of the study indicate a statistically significant reduction in justifications for offender behavior in the experimental group on the Ju scale (p-value = 0.008). On the CDI and TA scale, the null hypotheses were supported. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved) Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 63(10-B), Apr 2003, pp. 4899.

Keywords: Empirical Study Male Sex Offenders Relapse Prevention Sex Offenders Sex Offenses Sex Offender Treatment Therapeutic Intervention

Accuracy Verified: Yes

74. Hyer, L., & Kushner, B. (2007). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and stress: Research, theory and practical suggestions. In P. M. Lehrer, R. L. Woolfolk, & W. Sime (Eds.), Principles and Practice of Stress Management (3d ed.) (pp. 545-578). New York, NY, US: Guilford Press. xvii, 734 pp.

Language: English

Format: Book Section

Abstract:
This chapter addresses several things. First, we consider the key features of eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), its theoretical foundations, and later its integration with other therapies. We consider the merits of the key (and controversial) components of EMDR and discuss the integration of EMDR in psychotherapy. We then consider the efficacy of EMDR in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and examine meta-analyses and studies that evaluate this therapeutic program. We rate the salient studies of EMDR and PTSD. Then we discuss EMDR and its limitations and contraindications. Finally, we present the EMDR protocol and three cases that demonstrate the use of EMDR. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2009 APA, all rights reserved)

Keywords: Research Theory

Accuracy Verified: Yes

75. Zeper, R. S. (1996). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: A multiple baseline study. The Union Institute, Cincinnati, OH. AAT 9701084.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was developed in 1987 by Francine Shapiro, as a modality for relieving anxiety, traumatic memories, intrusive thoughts, and reprocessing negative self-beliefs to positive self-beliefs. One of the most common uses of EMDR in recent years has been the treatment of PTSD.This current study investigated the effects of EMDR across a sample of 3 sexually abused women diagnosed with PTSD using a multiple baseline design across subjects. The study specifically focused on whether or not intervention with EMDR effects traumatic memory and negative/irrational cognitions, decreases stress or changes levels of anxiety, depression and heart rate. The study intended to assess the efficacy of EMDR while simultaneously reduce human suffering and answer some of the more serious criticisms which have blurred confidence in EMDR outcome research. Specifically, the study controlled for a number of the criticisms in the literature predominantly through a confirmation of an accurate PTSD diagnosis and through the use of a multiple baseline design. The multiple baseline design was applied sequentially to the same problem across different but matched subjects sharing the same environmental conditions. Heart rate level and well-known psychometrics were used to obtain baseline, intervention and post-intervention measures. Psychometric scores reflecting levels of depression, anxiety, and subjective levels of the impact of distress regarding the trauma were assessed along with the levels of anxiety currently experienced about the trauma and subjective ratings regarding the acceptance of the preferred, self-generated positive cognition. The measures used in this study were an initial clinical interview, an Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for the DSM-IV, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Wolpe's Subjective Unit of Disturbance Scale, Validity of Cognition, Impact of Event Scale and heart rate. The study reported descriptive statistics to analyze the multiple baseline study and to determine EMDR's clinical significance in treating PTSD. The effects of EMDR on the three PTSD subjects of this study demonstrated that meaningful changes occurred in several areas. Subjective disturbance and stress surrounding the traumatic memory decreased, positive self-cognitions increased, and both depression and anxiety levels decreased following EMDR treatment. No change in heart rate physiology occurred. All of the study's treatment measures were maintained at follow-up. The results of this study suggest that EMDR may be a powerful and effective intervention to reduce patient suffering in a relatively painless fashion. [Author Abstract] Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 57(8-B), Feb 1997, pp. 5350.

Keywords: Adults Empirical Study Females Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Rape Survivors Treatment Effectiveness Treatment Outcome/Clinical Trial

Accuracy Verified: Yes

76. Wilson, D. L., Silver, S. M., Covi, W. G., & Foster, S. (1996, September). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Effectiveness and autonomic correlates. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 27(3), 219-229. doi:10.1016/S0005-7916(96)00026-2.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
18 subjects distressed by memories of a specific traumatic event were randomly assigned to a single session of 1 of 3 conditions: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a Time Interval Condition (TIC), or Tapping Alternate Phalanges (TAP). All subjects treated in the EMDR group showed desensitization as monitored by SUDs, which correlated with the physiological data and cessation of pronounced symptomatology. Only 1 subject in a control group showed desensitization. Compared to TIC and TAP, autonomic measures showed distinct changes during EMDR: (1) respiration synchronized with the rhythm of the eye movements in a shallow, regular pattern; (2) heart rate slowed significantly overall; (3) systolic blood pressure increased during early sets, invariable declined during abreactions, and decreased overall; (4) finger tip skin temperature consistently increased; and (5) the galvanic skin response consistently decreased in a clear "relaxation response." This relaxing effect of the eye movements suggests that at least one of the mechanisms operating during EMDR is desensitization by reciprocal inhibition, by pairing emotional distress with an unlearned or "compelled" relaxation response. [Author Summary]

Keywords: Adults Arousal Empirical Study European Americans Longitudinal Study Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Random Clinical Trial RCT Stressors Survivors Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

77. Feener, R. S. (2004). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: A new method in the treatment of performance anxiety for singers. Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL. AAT 3156073.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
The purpose of this thesis is to provide information and exposure for EMDR therapy as it relates to performance anxiety in singers and other musicians. Since EMDR therapy is a relatively new approach to relieving issues of anxiety, this thesis provides a description of its discovery, background, development, and proper procedures and protocols. In 1987 Francine Shapiro discovered and began to develop a new method in the treatment of trauma using guided eye movements. These guided eye movements were theorized to create bilateral brain stimulation, which through the simultaneous component of recalling ones trauma both physically and emotionally, an individual’s trauma can be processed toward a state of mental health. This is similar to what is theorized to happen during REM sleep. Francine Shapiro states that every human being possesses an innate information processing system that guides each individual toward a balanced state of mental health, similar to the way our bodies heal physically. Once an individual experiences a trauma, the events become locked into the nervous system into its own separate neuro-network, unable to be accessed by the individual for positive processing. Our ability to process the traumatic experience is hindered and the trauma relives itself through nightmares, flashbacks, disturbing or intrusive thoughts, anxiety, or any number of life hindering events. The theory of EMDR is that through guided eye movements, or other sources of bilateral brain stimulation such as hand taps, alternating lights or sounds, or hand buzzers, the traumatic information held in its separate neuro-network is able to bridge itself to more positive information stored in the individual’s memory. EMDR not only helps to desensitize our traumatic memories but also helps to reprocess our thoughts and feelings regarding the trauma with positive statements and beliefs such as “I am in control” and “I deserve this”. One of the most impressive aspects of the therapy is the rate in which patients improve. The success rate of EMDR is between 84 and 90 percent effective in one to three sessions or less, depending on the severity of the trauma. EMDR began treating patients suffering primarily from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome) but has expanded over the years to include a wide range of pathologies, traumas, and anxiety disorders. Francine Shapiro is continuously striving to enhance the protocols and procedures of EMDR in order to better understand and improve its effectiveness. I discovered EMDR only a ew years ago and realized that it was being used by therapists across the country in the treatment of performance anxiety, but very little had been written on this topic. Therefore, my goal is to expose both singers and instrumentalists to this new method as a new option in the treatment of performance anxiety.

Keywords: Bilateral Brain Stimulation Brain Stimulation Cognitive Processes Emotional Trauma Eye Movements Information Processing System Mental Health Musicians Performance Anxiety Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Singers Stress Syndromes Trauma

Accuracy Verified: Yes

78. Lohr, J., Tolin, D., & Kleinknecht, R. (1995, June). Eye movement desensitization of medical phobias: Two case studies. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 26(2), 141-151. doi:10.1016/0005-7916(95)00011-N.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
We treated two medical phobic subjects with eye movement desensitization (EMD). Using detailed images of fear-related events, the treatment design conformed to an additive, within-series phase change to examine enduring effects. Results indicated that both subjects' verbal reports of fear decreased substantially using the EMD procedure. There were no consistent changes in heart rate. Similarly, self-reported fear toward a simulated blood draw decreased, but heart rate and blood pressure did not. Data for a number of standardized measures of medical fear indicated posttreatment reduction for both subjects. Anecdotal reports of medical procedures revealed limited generalization of treatment effects.

Keywords: Medical Phobias

Accuracy Verified: Yes

79. Bolen, D. W. (1999, August). Eye movement desensitization reprocessing for the treatment of anxiety in psychology internship applicants: An interrupted time series design. The Chicago School - School of Professional Psychology, Chicago, IL. AAT 9920131.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
This study used an interrupted time series design to study the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization Processing (EMDR) on the anxiety levels of 17 psychology graduate student participants who were in the process of applying to psychology internship sites. Participants were screened for pathology using the Symptom Checklist - Revised. Anxiety was assessed four times using the State Trait Anxiety Scale, twice prior to and twice following treatment with EMDR. Additionally, in an attempt to the account for some of the error variance due to history, the Schedule of Recent Events was given twice during the study, once prior to the EMDR treatment and once along with the final administration of the State Trait Anxiety Scale. Additional information about the effects of EMDR on anxiety, were obtained by monitoring heart rate and blood pressure changes during EMDR treatment for half of the participants. A dependent t-test on pre- and post-EMDR State Trait Anxiety Scale data failed to yield significant results. Other analyses also showed no effect of treatment. However, visual inspection of the data suggested that EMDR may have been effective for some participants. The range and diversity of participant's responses to anxiety over the course of the study, the relatively small sample size and design factors that increased the error variance were discussed in relation to the insignificant results. It was suggested that specific personality traits (e.g. characterological anxiety) and attributes of the distressing target event (e.g. amount of affect evoked) may act as intervening variables in an individual's response to EMDR treatment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved) Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 60(2-B), Aug 1999, pp. 0819.

Keywords: Anxiety Empirical Study Interrupted Time Series Design Treatment Outcome/Clinical Trial

Accuracy Verified: Yes

80. Philip, D. (1996, August 19). Eye wash for perverts?. Alberta Report/Newsmagazine, 23(36), 1-2.

Language: English

Format: Magazine

Abstract:
Reports on a new therapy for sex offenders called Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). The details of the treatment; The treatment's creator David Price at the Bowden Institution; His use of volunteers who are pedophiles and other sex offenders; Comparisons made to the motion picture `A Clockwork Orange'; The increasing rate of sex offenders in Canada; Skepticism about the program.

Keywords: General Overview

Accuracy Verified: Yes

81. Merckelbach, H., Hogervost, E., Kampman, M., & de Jongh, A. (1994, March). Eye-movement-desensitization heeft geen effect op emotionele reactiviteit van 'normale' proefpersonen [Eye movement desensitization has no effect on the emotional reactivity of normal test subjects]. Gedragstherapie, 27(1), 33-49.

Language: Dutch

Format: Magazine

Abstract:
Verschillende single-case studies hebben gesuggereerd dat posttraumatische stress-symptomen en andere angst-gerelateerde problemen kunnen succesvol worden behandeld met een sessie van de oogbeweging desensibilisatie (EMD). Twee experimenten werden uitgevoerd om te onderzoeken of EMD de emotionele reactie van de normale proefpersonen beïnvloedt. In het eerste experiment kregen de proefpersonen (N = 40) blijkt een aversieve dia. Vervolgens helft van de proefpersonen ondergingen EMD, terwijl ze repeteerden de dia informatie, en de andere helft onderging een controle-procedure (dwz de vinger te tikken), terwijl het verbeelden van de glijbaan. Voor en na de interventie (dat wil zeggen, EMD vs vinger te tikken), werden de hartslag en de self-report gegevens die zijn verkregen terwijl proefpersonen repeteerde de dia. Er werd geen bewijs gevonden dat EMD de emotionele impact van de aversieve dia verlaagd. Het tweede experiment werd uitgevoerd langs dezelfde lijnen. Echter, dit keer proefpersonen (N = 28) repeteerde een pijnlijke gebeurtenis die zij onlangs had ervaren. Verder werd een cognitieve 'opwerking' component toegevoegd aan de EMD procedure. Toch heeft geen bevindingen ondersteunen het idee dat EMD emotionele reactiviteit remt om een grotere mate dan de vinger te tikken. Tezamen zijn de resultaten van beide experimenten niet bemoedigend, ze suggereren dat placebo-effecten en de vraag naar kenmerken rekening kan worden gehouden voor het spectaculaire succes van EMD.

Several single-case studies have suggested that posttraumatic stress symptoms and other anxiety-related problems can be successfully treated with one session of eye movement desensitization (EMD). Two experiments were carried out to examine whether EMD affects the emotional response of normal subjects. In the first experiment, subjects (N = 40) were shown an aversive slide. Next, half of the subjects underwent EMD while they rehearsed the slide information, and the other half underwent a control procedure (i.e., finger tapping) while imagining the slide. Before and after the intervention (i.e., EMD vs. finger tapping), heart rate and self-report data were obtained while subjects rehearsed the slide. No evidence was found to suggest that EMD reduced the emotional impact of the aversive slide. The second experiment was conducted along similar lines. However, this time subjects (N = 28) rehearsed an embarrassing event that they had recently experienced. Furthermore, a cognitive 'reprocessing' component was added to the EMD procedure. Nevertheless, findings did not support the idea that EMD inhibits emotional reactivity to greater extent than finger tapping. Taken together, the results of both experiments are not encouraging; they suggest that placebo effects and demand characteristics may account for the spectacular success of EMD.

Keywords: Aversive Stimulation Emotional Responses Eye Movements Systematic Desensitization Therapy

Accuracy Verified: Yes

82. Ichii, M., Amano, T., & Yoshikawa, H. (2012, June). Hemodynamic responses during EMDR treatment of traumatic memory [Respuestas hemodinámicas durante el tratamiento de memorias traumáticas con EMDR]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Madrid, Spain.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
In order to investigate brain activity during EMDR, 52-channel NIRS（near –infrared spectroscopy) and heart rate were measured in treating a traumatic memory of non-clinical twenty five year old woman. A target memory was sexually molestation by a stranger when she was ten years old, and forced to touch penis of perpetrator. And IES-R score was as low as 11. A well-experienced EMDR therapist (=M.I.) applied estandarized EMDR protocol. Negative cognition was “I am shameful person”, and positive cognition was ”I deserve to live.” The body location is both arms and hands. By thirty-seven sets of EM, 7.5 level of SUDs decreased to 0, and VOC went up from 3.5 to 7. The [oxy-Hb] change in right orbitofrontal cortex increased as the negative emotion went up, and decreased rapidly after processing. The [oxy-Hb] change in left orbitofrontal cortex decreased just after cognitive interweave of responsibility was done. The [oxy-Hb] variation in right temporal lobe increased rapidly, and the [oxy-Hb] change in left temporal lobe decreased when direction of EM was changed from horizontal to diagonal movement when negative imagery disappeared. Heart rate data show gradual decreasing tendency throughout the session. Within each set, heart rate also decreased by EM. By monitoring NIRS, various techniques or pivotal processes in EMDR may be supposed to influence brain. In order to confirm the relationship, we should collect data from more subjects.

Para poder investigar la actividad cerebral durante EMDR, se midieron la NIRS (espectroscopia cercana al infrarrojo) de 52 canales y el ritmo cardíaco para tratar los recuerdos traumático de una mujer no clínica de veinticinco años. Un recuerdo diana fue un abuso sexual de un extraño cuando tenía 10 años y el agresor la obligó a tocarle el pene. La puntuación del IES-‐R fue de 11. Un terapeuta EMDR con experiencia (=M.I.) aplicó el protocolo estándar de EMDR. La cognición negativa fue “Soy una persona vergonzosa”, y la cognición positiva fue ”Merezco vivir.” La localización corporal fue en ambos brazos y manos. Después de 37 sets de movimientos oculares, el SUD de 7,5 bajó a 0, y el VOC subió de un 3,5 a un 7. El cambio [oxy-‐Hb] en el córtex órbitofrontal derecho aumentó a medida que aumentaba la emoción negativa, y disminuyó rápidamente después del procesamiento. El cambio [oxy-‐Hb] en el córtex órbitofrontal izquierdo disminuyó justo después de hacerse un entrelazado cognitivo de responsabilidad. La variación [oxy-‐Hb] en el lóbulo temporal derecho aumentó rápidamente, y el cambio [oxy-‐Hb] en el lóbulo temporal izquierdo disminuyó al cambiar la dirección de los movimientos oculares de horizontal a diagonal cuando desapareció la imagen negativa. Los datos del ritmo cardíaco muestran una tendencia decreciente gradual a lo largo de la sesión. En cada una de las tandas, el ritmo cardíaco también disminuyó por los movimientos oculares. A través de monitorear el NIRS, se supone que diversas técnicas o procesos centrales en EMDR influyen en el cerebro. Para poder confirmar esta relación, deberíamos recolectar datos de más sujetos.

Keywords: Hemodynamic Responses

Accuracy Verified: Yes

83. Lamprecht, F., Sack, M., & Lempa, W. (2002, November). Improved regulatory capacities after successful treatment of PTSD. Poster presented at the 18th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress, Baltimore, MD.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
We assessed the effects of psychotherapeutic treatment on psychophysiological hyperarousal and self-regulation during confrontation with a traumatic reminder in 15 subjects with PTSD before, shortly after EMDR-treatment and at 6-month follow-up.All subjects underwent a psychphysiological evaluation with a modified traumascript paradigm including assessment of scriptprovoked heart rate changes and heart rate variability. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) as the component of heart rate variability closely related to vagal tone was derived from the time-series of inter-beat intervals via polynomial band-pass filtering (Porges 1992). Psychometric instruments (IES, PDS, SUD-Scale) were used to assess treatment outcome.We found a significant overall reduction in psychometric measures of PTSD-symptomatology as well as significantly decreased levels of script provoked HR-acceleration after EMDR-treatment (11.3 ± 10.8 bpm vs. 5.1 ± 5.7 bpm, p < .03). As expected, traumascript presentation suppressed RSA-levels reflecting the effect of stress on vagal regulation. In comparison pre- vs. follow-up RSA increased significantly during baseline (5.06 ± .98 vs. 5.86 ± 1.2, p < .004) as well as during traumascript (4.55 ± 1.26 vs. 5.55 ± 1.23, p < .02). Our findings of higher RSA-levels in combination with reduced HR reactions on a traumatic reminder after successful psychotherapy can be interpreted as a therapy mediated enhancement of biologically determined self regulation capacities.

Keywords: Poster Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

84. Frustaci, A., Pozzi, G., Aurigemma, C., La Rosa, C., Lanza, G., Fernandez, I., & Ruggeri, G. (2006, Febbraio). Indicatori di cambiamento in pazienti con disturbi da eventi stressanti: Impiego della heart rate variability [Indicators of change in patients with disorders of stressful events: Use of heart rate variability]. Poster presentato al XI Congresso SOPSI (Società Italiana di Psicopatologia), Roma, Italia.

Language: Italian

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Introduzione: i pazienti traumatizzati presentano alterazioni sintomatiche quali intrusività, evitamento ed aumentato arousal, che ostacolerebbe la possibilità di elaborazione/integrazione delle tracce mnesiche, oltre ad esprimersi a livello periferico. Tecniche specifiche di trattamento sembrano promuovere l’elaborazione/integrazione delle memorie traumatiche, tra cui la Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Nella ricerca valutativa è quindi necessario affiancare alle scale psicologiche un appropriato indicatore biologico di attivazione neurovegetativa. La variabilità della frequenza cardiaca (Heart Rate Variability – HRV) esprime l’integrità funzionale del sistema neurovegetativo in risposta allo stress e può essere misurata nei domini di tempo o di frequenza. Lo studio della HRV è stato applicato in psichiatria ai disturbi d’ansia (panico, DOC, PTSD) e dell’umore (depressione unipolare) in ricerche trasversali (confronto con controlli sani) e longitudinali di trattamento farmacologico (triciclici, SSRIs) ma in pochi casi a trattamenti psicoterapici. Gli AA. valutano l’impiego della HRV come indicatore biologico nel trattamento psicoterapeutico di pazienti con Disturbo dell’adattamento erdurante da oltre un mese dopo l’esposizione ad eventi vitali stressanti (EVS). Metodi: sono stati reclutati 6 soggetti (M/F = 1/5, età 40,5 ± 11,0) esposti ad EVS ed avviati a ciclo di trattamento psicoterapico breve (4-6 sedute a cadenza settimanale) di tipo specifico (EMDR) o generico (colloqui supportivi). Costituivano criteri di esclusione: età < 18 o > 65 anni; comorbilità psichiatrica, neurologica e cardiologica; uso di farmaci interferenti. Le valutazioni psicopatologiche sono state eseguite al reclutamento (TBASE: colloquio anamnestico, MINI, Brief COPE), a inizio e fine ciclo di trattamento (TINI, TFINE: IES, SCL-90-R), a uno e tre mesi di follow-up (T30, T90: IES, SCL-90-R, Brief COPE). Le registrazioni Holter sono state effettuate ad ogni intervallo valutativo coprendo: 60 min. attività libera, 10 min. tilt-test, 3-5 min. ascolto dell’evento traumatico, 30-45 min. seduta psicoterapica. Sono stati impiegati test statistici non parametrici per l’analisi delle correlazioni (Spearman) e delle differenze (Wilcoxon). Risultati preliminari: vengono valutate le correlazioni a TINI e le variazioni T90 vs. TINI. Sono significative le seguenti correlazioni: ansia fobica SCL e SDNN (dev. standard intervalli R-R) [r = + 0,9; p = ,037]; collera-ostilità SCL e SDNN [r = -0,95; p =.014]; depressione SCL e r-MSSD (radice media somma quadrati diff. R-R) [r = + 0,9; p = ,037]; sint. intrusivi IES e LF (basse frequenze) [r = -0,9; p = ,037]. Sono risultate statisticamente significative le seguenti variazioni: IES totale [Z = -1,99; p = ,046], sintomi intrusivi IES [Z = -2,21; p = ,027], sintomi di evitamento IES [Z = -1,99; p = ,046], ideazione paranoide SCL [Z = -2,21; p = ,027]; R-R, LF e LF/HF (rapporto basse/alte frequenze) durante ascolto evento [Z = -2,02; p = ,043]. Discussione: a livello basale gli indicatori HRV di distress vegetativo correlano positivamente con collera-ostilità e sintomi intrusivi, negativamente con ansia e depressione. Anche dopo tre mesi dalla fine del trattamento gli interventi psicoterapeutici tendono a ridurre i punteggi sintomatici, e migliorano il bilancio simpato-vagale durante il riascolto dell’evento traumatico.

Introduction: trauma patients have symptomatic changes such as intrusiveness, avoidance and increased arousal, which hampers the development / integration of memory traces, as well as speak at the peripheral level. Specific techniques of treatment seem to promote the formulation and integration of traumatic memories, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). In evaluation research is therefore necessary to combine psychological scales appropriate indicator organic autonomic activation. The heart rate variability (Heart Rate Variability - HRV) expresses functional integrity of the autonomic nervous system in response stress and can be measured in time or frequency domains. The study of HRV has been applied in psychiatric disorders anxiety (panic, DOC, PTSD) and mood (unipolar depression) in cross-disciplinary (compared with healthy controls) and longitudinal drug treatment (tricyclic SSRIs), but in a few cases in psychotherapeutic treatment. The AA. evaluate the use of HRV as a biological indicator in the psychotherapeutic treatment of patients with adjustment disorder erdurante more than a month after exposure to stressful life events (EVS). Methods: 6 subjects were recruited (M / F = 1 / 5, age 40.5 ± 11.0) exposed to EVS and initiated treatment cycle psychotherapeutic short (4-6 sessions weekly) type specific (EMDR) or generic (hearing supported). Exclusion criteria were: age <18 or> 65 years, psychiatric comorbidity, neurological and cardiological, use of drugs interfering. Psychopathological assessments were performed at recruitment (TBASE: anamnestic interview, MINI, Brief COPE) at the beginning and end of treatment cycle (TINI, TFINE: IES, SCL-90-R) in a three-month follow-up (T30, T90: IES, SCL-90-R, Brief COPE). Holter recordings were made at each interval evaluation covering: 60 min. free activity, 10 min. tilt-test, 3-5 min. listening to the traumatic event, 30-45 minutes. psychotherapy session. Were used nonparametric statistical tests for analysis correlations (Spearman) and differences (Wilcoxon). Preliminary results: the correlations are evaluated and changes TINI vs. T90. TINI. Significant correlations are the following: SCL phobic anxiety and SDNN (standard dev. RR intervals) [r = + 0.9, p =, 037]; anger-hostility SCL SDNN [r = -0.95, p =. 014]; SCL depression r-mssd (root mean square sum diff. RR) [r = + 0.9, p =, 037]; sint. IES intrusive and LF (low frequency) [r = -0.9, P =, 037]. Were statistically significant, the following changes: IES total [Z = -1.99, p =, 046], IES intrusive symptoms [Z = -2.21, p =, 027], symptoms of avoidance IES [Z = -1.99, p =, 046] , SCL paranoid [Z = -2.21, p =, 027], RR, LF and LF / HF ratio (low / high frequencies) while listening event [Z = -2.02, p =, 043]. Discussion: At baseline HRV indicators of distress correlated positively with growing anger-hostility, and intrusive symptoms, negatively with anxiety and depression. Even after three months of the end of psychotherapeutic treatment interventions aimed at reducing symptom scores and enhance sympathetic vagal balance during the playback of the traumatic event.

Keywords: Heart Rate Variability Poster Stress Disorders

Accuracy Verified: Yes

85. Servan-Schreiber, D. (2004). The instinct to heal: Curing stress, anxiety, and depression without drugs and without talk therapy - [Guérir le stress, l'anxiété et la dépression sans médicaments ni psychanalyse]. Emmaus, PA: Rodale.

Language: English

Format: Book

Abstract:
The seven natural treatment approaches that the author describes in this book all capitalize on the mind and brain's own healing mechanisms for recovering from depression, anxiety, and stress. All seven methods have been researched and studies documenting their benefits have been published in prestigious scientific journals. Because the mechanisms through which they operate remain poorly understood, these methods have remained largely excluded from the mainstream of medicine and psychiatry. The natural methods of treatment that are presented directly impact the emotional brain, almost entirely short-circuiting language. Although many such methods are being proposed today, in the author's clinical practice, and in this book, he has selected only those that have received enough scientific attention to make him comfortable in using them with patients and in recommending them to his colleagues. Each of the following chapters presents one of these approaches, illustrated by the stories of patients whose lives have been transformed by their experience. He also tries to show the degree to which each method has been scientifically evaluated. Some of the very recent methods include "eye movement desensitization and reprocessing" (better known as EMDR), or heart rate coherence training, or even the synchronization of chronobiological rhythms with artificial dawn (which should replace the alarm clock). Other approaches, like acupuncture, nutrition, exercise, emotional communication, and cultivating your connection to something larger than yourself, stem from age-old traditions, though new scientific data are giving them a renewed importance. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved). Available in English and French.

Keywords: Anxiety Brain Depression Emotional Brain Emotions Heart Rate Heart Rate Coherence Training Major Depression Natural Treatment Approaches Neuropsychology Psychotherapeutic Techniques Stress

Accuracy Verified: Yes

86. Brown, S. H., Gilman, S. G., Goodman, E. G., Adler-Tapia, R., & Freng, S. (2010). Integrated trauma treatment in drug court: Combining EMDR and seeking safety. Authors.

Language: English

Format: Other

Abstract:
Trauma histories with co-occurring Substance Use Disorder (SUD) are disproportionately prevalent for individuals in the criminal justice system. A study was implemented in the Thurston County Drug Court Program to determine the prevalence of trauma exposure and evaluate the feasibility of implementing an Integrated Trauma Treatment Program (ITTP) combining two empirically supported treatments: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Seeking Safety (SS). It was hypothesized that individual trauma treatment would lead to improved program outcomes, including increased graduation rates and lower recidivism. Two hundred nineteen males and females, ages 18-65 were screened. One hundred sixty one participants (73.5%) were eligible for the ITTP based on a self-report of at least one “criterion A” event in their lifetime. Fifty-eight participants (26.5%) did not report criterion A trauma and were assigned to program as usual (PAU). Participants who completed only the SS groups (N=50) graduated at a rate of 62% compared to 91.3% of those who completed both SS and EMDR (N=69). After implementation of the ITTP, recidivism for graduates was 7.4% and 18% for terminators, compared to 25% and 30.6% respectively prior to the ITTP. These outcomes provide preliminary evidence that individual trauma treatment can improve graduation rates and decrease recidivism in a Drug Court Program.

Keywords: Drug Court Integrated Trauma Treatment Program ITTP Seeking Safety Substance Use Disorder SUD Thurston County Drug Court Program

Accuracy Verified: Yes

87. Nutting, R. W. (2003, May). The integration of EMDR and body dialogue. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Assocation, Rome, Italy.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This paper details the Body Dialogue process and the EMDR protocol for its use and presents two case studies that demonstrate this integrative technique. Recent studies show that trauma can profoundly affect the body. Many symptoms felt by individuals who have experienced trauma appear to be somatically based. Imprinted memories from 'big T' traumas and 'little t' traumas appear to have their origins sometimes decades before the body 'remembers'. When triggered by a present stimulus, these imprinted body memories recur and the body relives the past trauma. Most methods of trauma counselling and therapy address only the cognitive and emotional components of trauma, lacking the techniques that work directly with the physiological components of past traumatic incidents. The Body Dialogue technique (Stone J, Stone H, Stone S) offers a way to explore the psychological significance of sensations such as pain, motor impulses, muscular tension, trembling, breathing and heart rate. Since such somatic disturbances contain emotional and cognitive components, this dialogue process is able to identify and explore the deep psychological issues surrounding these imprinted body sensations and muscular reactions. The Body Dialogue process is integrated into the EMDR protocol (Shapiro, 2002) when the individual is confronted with body sensations. Having identified the issues (traumas) surrounding these sensations using the dialogue technique, the EMDR protocol is resumed. This enables the processing of the original trauma to occur as well as the instillation of a positive belief. During the therapeutic process using these two therapies, the therapist never has to touch the client.

Keywords: Body Dialogue

Accuracy Verified: Yes

88. Sato-Perry, C. (2003). An integrative literature review concerning the treatment of breast cancer patients through eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. School of Professional Psychology, San Francisco, CA. AAT 3101179.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
As remarkable as breast cancer killing a record 190,000 individuals in 2001 is the modern phenomenon of increased survival. With a relative five-year survival rate of 86% after diagnosis and a "long-term" (10-year) survival rate of 76%, the issue of living longer with the harmful effects of cancer has been well documented. A growing understanding of breast cancer's psychological impact has resulted from the DSM-IV no longer necessitating the diagnosis of PTSD to result from a stressor outside the range of usual human experience; thus, a chronic illness such as cancer is qualified for consideration. Considered systemically, individuals, families and the public health delivery system as a whole suffer as a consequence of medical trauma. The purpose of this review was to provide a medical and psychosocial understanding of breast cancer and investigate psychological trauma as it has pertained to breast cancer. On this basis, a literature review documenting Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing's effect on trauma is explored in terms of its potential effectiveness in treating medical trauma specific to the breast cancer patient. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Cancer Survivors Literature Review Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

89. Lohr, J., Tolin, D., & Kleinknecht, R. (1996, January). An intensive design investigation of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing of claustrophobia. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 10(1), 73-88. doi:10.1016/0887-6185(95)00036-4.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Two claustrophobic subjects were treated with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), a new treatment for induced anxiety disorders. Both subjects were interviewed to construct detailed images of fear-related events before treatment. The treatment followed a within-series phase-change design to examine the effects of eye movement added to the general treatment protocol. Both subjects' verbal reports of fear changed substantially when eye movements were added to the general treatment protocol. It was concluded that the addition of eye movement was necessary to reduce the aversiveness of some phobic imagery. No change in heart rate was observed for either subject. These results are discussed within the framework of the growing number of EMDR outcome studies (ScienceDirect).

Keywords: Claustrophia

Accuracy Verified: Yes

90. Chang, S. H. & Lee, Y. H. (2005, August). Interfering CLEM reduces vividness and emotionality of autobiographical memories. Presentation at the 2005 American Psychological Association Annual Convention, Washington, DC C. (NSC 93-2413-H-002-002-).

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Research background: It was noted that when people recalled an emotional event, there is a spontaneous eye movements during retrieval of memory, known as conjugate lateral eye movements (CLEM). Eye movements during mental imagery are not epiphenomenal but assist the process of image generation (Hebb, 1968; Brandt & Stark, 1997). If restricted to a fixed point, then the image of recall is impaired (Laeng & Teodorescu 2002). These findings might shed light on why bilateral eye movements during imagery could decrease vividness and emotionality of recollections. Objectives: Based on the above findings, this study examined possible therapeutic mechanism of eye movements in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR; Shapiro, 1989, 1995, 2001), of which eye movement was a crucial treatment component. Specifically, the hypothesis that interfering CLEM via introducing bilateral eye movements or a fixed position could reduce vividness and emotionality of autobiographical memories was examined in the present study. Further, whether there are different CLEMs (more rightward in positive and more leftward in negative) during retrieval of positive and negative memories was also investigated. Method: Seventeen healthy volunteers recalled two positive and two negative memories and rated their vividness and emotionality of the recollections. Next, memories were recalled whilst the participant was performing either bilateral eye movements (interference of CLEM) or mere image condition (non-interference of CLEM). Then participants were asked to recall the event again and to rate its vividness and emotionality. Vividness and emotionality ratings were analyzed using a 2 (EM condition: bilateral eye movement vs. mere image) × 2 (valence of memory: positive vs. negative) × 2 (time: before vs. after the intervention) repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). During the first and last recall of each memory CLEM were recorded by a digital camera. To examine the effect of CLEM during recollections on emotionality and vividness of autobiographical memories, eye movements in each recall were counted into percentage time of eye gaze in three regions (leftward, middle, rightward), instead of counting the first lateral eye movement as used by the traditional method. Results: Compared to mere image condition, recollections after bilateral eye movements made subsequent recollections less vivid and less emotive, while the opposite was true for mere image condition. Regarding vividness, the 2 × 2 × 2 ANOVA showed that there was a significant condition × time interaction. None of the other interactions or main effects reached significance. Simple main effect indicated that the change in vividness was significant in the mere image condition, but not in the eye movement condition. As to emotionality, the three way ANOVA showed that there was also a significant condition × time interaction. None of the other interactions or main effects reached significance. Simple main effect indicated that the change in emotionality was significant in the mere image condition, and in eye movement condition. Concerning percentage of gaze direction (left, right) in positive and negative memories, pair t test showed that there was a significant right gaze difference between positive and negative memories, and approached significant left gaze difference between positive and negative memories. With regard to CLEM, negative memories showed less right gazes and more left gazes than positive memories. Conclusion:The bilateral eye movements made autobiographical memories less vivid and less emotive than mere image condition, while mere image increased the vividness and emotionality of autobiographical memories. Further, there is different CLEM for negative and positive memories. While the hypothesis that interference of CLEM reduced the vividness and emotionality of autobiographical memories was confirmed, the role of eye movement in the EMDR was discussed and future research possibilities are proposed.

Keywords: Autobiographical Memory CLEM Eye Movements Gaze Direction

Accuracy Verified: Yes

91. Spence, J. M., & Johnston, L. (2011, August-September). Internet-based CBT and EMDR for posttraumatic stress disorder: the results from two trials. Presentation at the 41st EABCT annual conference, Reykjavík, Iceland.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Objectives: Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe, distressing, and chronic condition. Limited availability of appropriately trained professionals is a significant barrier to accessing appropriate treatment. This presentation reports the results of two pilot studies: (i) a pilot RCT of Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); (ii) an open trial of Internetbased eye movement desensitzation and reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. RCT: Internet-delivered CBT Methods: 43 people with PTSD were randomly allocated to receive clinician-assisted Internet-based treatment for PTSD, or to a waitlist control condition. Participants in the clinician-assisted version received access to the 7-lesson PTSD program plus regular emails from a clinician, automatic reminder emails, and access to an online discussion forum. Results: Participants reported significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, depression and anxiety (Cohen’s d respectively: 1.3, 1.2 and 0.7). Furthermore, participant satisfaction with the treatment program was high. Conclusions: PTSD is a disabling disorder, but access to treatment is limited for many people. Developing addditional effective techniques for treating patients with PTSD is an important priority for mental health clinicians. OPEN TRIAL: Internet-delivered EMDR Methods: This trial is due to commence in March, 2011 and will run for 8 weeks. It involves 15 people with PTSD allocated to receive internet-based EMDR in addition to the existing internetbased CBT protocol used in the above RCT. To our knowledge, this is the first time that EMDR has been delivered via the internet or tested despite EMDR being recommended as a first-line intervention for PTSD by several treatment guidelines for PTSD [1, 2]. We expect that clinically significant improvements will be observed and that participants will rate the EMDR module as acceptable.

Keywords: Internet-Based CBT Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

92. Karim, S. F. (2002-2003). Introducing EMDR: Its implications for clinical practice and research. Journal of the Faculty of Arts, The Dhaka University Studies, 59(1), 50 (2), & 60(1), 201-206.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
EMDR is a complex, time efficient and powerful method of psychotherapy that integrates many of the most successful elements of a wide range of therapeutic approaches, even long-term Freudian analysis. The procedure involves having the client focus intensively on the traumatic memory while moving the eyes rapidly from side to side, by visually tracking the therapist's moving hand. This seems to render the traumatic memory accessible to the healing resources of the rest of the personality, where it may be worked through and integrated. In addition, it uses eye movements or other forms of rhythmical stimulation. such as taps or tones, in a way that seems to assist the brain's information-processing system to processed at a rapid rate. Special protocols may be used for a single traumatic event, current anxiety and behaviour, recent traumatic events, phobias, excessive grief, illness and somatic disorders and different forms of addictions. Protocols include the sequence of progressing on a particular target. EMDR as an integrative approach starts from the moment the client enters through the door. Although called Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, directed eye movements (where the eye movement is given a direction by tracking with two fingers) is only one form of stimulation used as a part of its complete methodology. Other forms of stimulation include bilateral auditory stimulation and alternate hand tapping. It is an innovative clinical treatment for victims of trauma. Francine Shapiro introduced it in 1989 and a large number of clinicians worldwide have been trained in the method. Francine Shapiro defines "the goal of EMDR is to achieve the most profound and comprehensive treatment effects possible in the shortest period of time, while maintaining client stability with a balanced system" (Shapiro, 2001).

Keywords: Practice Theory

Accuracy Verified: Yes

93. Sharpley, C., Montgomery, I., & Scalzo, L. (1996). An investigation of some hypothetical mechanisms underlying EMDR. Scandinavian Journal of Behaviour Therapy, 25(2), 87-98.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Keywords: Alpha Activity Australia Alpha Rhythm Empirical Study Heart Rate Relaxation T-Wave Amplitude

Accuracy Verified: Yes

94. Noorthoorn, E. O., Havenaar, J. M., de Haan, H. A., van Rood, Y. R., & van Stiphout, W. A. (2010). Mental health service use and outcomes after the Enschede fireworks disaster: A naturalistic follow-up study. Psychiatric Services, 61(11), 1138-1143. doi:10.1176/appi.ps.61.11.1138.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Objective: This study documented the number of people seeking help for mental health problems after a fireworks disaster in Enschede, the Netherlands. It describes their diagnostic characteristics, interventions provided, and their results. Methods: Researchers coded data from intakes and medical charts of all patients who sought help (N=1,659) and entered treatment (N=663) at a disaster relief service between May 13, 2000 (day of the disaster), and June 1, 2004. Patients who received more than eight treatment sessions (N=394) and were in treatment one year after the disaster were interviewed with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) (N=228, response rate, 58%) and other questionnaires (N=271, response rate, 69%). Results: In the population probably exposed, the cumulative referral-incidence for disaster-related mental health problems over four years was approximately 10%; in terms of referrals to the mental health facility over five years, the proportion of disaster-related referrals was 5.7%. Among adults, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was the most common clinical diagnosis (53%, chart sample). However, depression was the most common CIDI diagnosis (58%, CIDI interview sample). The recovery rate was about 50% on the basis of clinical judgment (chart sample), between 69% and 76% on the basis of "healthy" scores on symptoms, and between 39% and 60% in social and physical functioning (interview sample). Conclusions: Apart from persons seeking support during the first weeks postdisaster, the largest influx occurred after about one year and was limited in size. Clinicians in specialized services should be aware that conditions other than PTSD, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and somatoform disorders, are also quite common after disasters. (Psychiatric Services 61:1138—1143, 2010) On the afternoon of May 13, 2000, a fireworks deposit situated in a residential area exploded, killing 22 people and injuring about 1,000 in the center of Enschede, a town in the east of the Netherlands. As a result approximately 1,500 houses were damaged, of which 498 had to be demolished, leading to displacement of 4,163 inhabitants (1). An estimated 17,000 individuals were probably exposed in one way or another to this disaster (1). The event was immediately declared a national disaster. In response, a nationwide support effort was launched and funds were allocated for research to document health consequences of this disaster. As a result, data about health, well-being, and medical service use have been systematically collected since the early days after this event (2,3,4,5). In contrast to the wealth of publications about the epidemiology of mental health problems after a disaster (6,7), there are only few studies that describe help-seeking behavior for these problems in a population stricken by disaster, or the outcomes of interventions. In this article we present the results of a chart study and interviews in early and later phases of treatment of adults who sought help from mental health services for disaster-related problems. The aim of the study was to evaluate mental health service delivery to persons affected by the fireworks disaster in Enschede during the period from May 2000 to May 2005. This study documented the number of people seeking help for disaster-related psychological problems, their sociodemographic and diagnostic characteristics, the interventions that they received, and some results of these interventions. To our knowledge this is the first systematic investigation of all adults seeking specialized mental health care in a disaster-stricken area.

Keywords: Enschede Fireworks Disaster

Accuracy Verified: Yes

95. Kehle, S., Polusny, M., & Meis, L. (2009, November). A meta-analytic review of exposure therapy and EMDR in the treatment of adult PTSD. Presentation at the 25th Annual Meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Atlanta, GA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization (EMDR) and exposure therapies (e.g. prolonged exposure therapy) have both been recommended as first-line treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, relatively little is known about the comparative efficacy of the two types of treatments. To date, the few studies that have been conducted have small sample sizes, making it difficult to draw conclusions. The goal of the current study was to use meta-analytic techniques to synthesize the existing data on the relative efficacy of exposure therapies and EMDR. Through a comprehensive literature search, we identified six randomized control trials that met our inclusion criteria. We calculated Hedges g effect sizes for the continuous variables (positive values favor exposure therapies) and risk ratios (RRs) for dichotomous variables (values greater than one favor exposure therapies). EMDR and exposure therapies did not differ significantly on clinician-rated PTSD (g = 0.32), self-report PTSD (g = -0.08), selfreport depression (g = -0.01), loss of PTSD diagnosis (RR = 1.46), or dropout (RR = 0.79). However, higher-quality studies (based on Foa & Meadows’ 1997 criteria) consistently favored exposure therapies. Clinical implications will be discussed

Keywords: Exposure Therapy Meta-analysis Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

96. Kehle, S., Polusny, M., & Meis, L. (2009, November). A meta-analytic review of exposure therapy and EMDR in the treatment of adult PTSD. Presentation at the 25th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Atlanta, GA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Treatment Studies: I
Eye movement desensitization (EMDR) and exposure therapies (e.g. prolonged exposure therapy) have both been recommended as first-line treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, relatively little is known about the comparative efficacy of the two types of treatments. To date, the few studies that have been conducted have small sample sizes, making it difficult to draw conclusions. The goal of the current study was to use meta-analytic techniques to synthesize the existing data on the relative efficacy of exposure therapies and EMDR. Through a comprehensive literature search, we identified six randomized control trials that met our inclusion criteria. We calculated Hedges g effect sizes for the continuous variables (positive values favor exposure therapies) and risk ratios (RRs) for dichotomous variables (values greater than one favor exposure therapies). EMDR and exposure therapies did not differ significantly on clinician-rated PTSD (g = 0.32), self-report PTSD (g = -0.08), selfreport depression (g = -0.01), loss of PTSD diagnosis (RR = 1.46), or dropout (RR = 0.79). However, higher-quality studies (based on Foa & Meadows’ 1997 criteria) consistently favored exposure therapies. Clinical implications will be discussed.

Keywords: Adult Exposure Therapy Meta-Analytic Review Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

97. Sugawara Masakazu & Suzuki K (2004, July). Methodological and conceptual issues and tests - EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and REM sleep. Poster presented at the Annual Meeting of the Australian Society for the Study of Brain Impairment (ASSBI) and the International Neuropsychological Society (INS), Brisbane, Australia.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract: Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and REM sleep. [Background] Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a new innovative treatment with a high success rate for psychological disturbances rooted in traumatic memory. However, the neurophysiological mechanisms of EMDR have not yet been elucidated. Why is saccadic eye movement effective for the reprocessing of previously established conditioned reflex? [Aims] The present research analysed (i)the topographical changes of EEG (and ERP) and REM sleep after EMDR treatment, and (ii)the subjective units of emotional distress (SUDs) and VOC. [Methods] Subjects (13 males and 20 females) were assigned to three groups according to varied conditions (control, provocational, and EMDR), and engaged in sets of horizontal saccadic-eye movements lasting approximately 30 seconds per set. Topographical changes of EEG and ERP activities were recorded from 14 placements over frontal, central, parietal, temporal and occipital scalp locations in the international 10-20 system with linked mastoides (A1-A2). Electrodes were also placed on the lateral canthus and above the supercillium of the left eye in order to measure the electrooculographic and electromyographic responses. [Results and Conclusions] The statistical significance of topographical EEG differences and REM densities during the pre-0post EMDR treatment situations, were evaluated using an ANONA and Mann-Whitney U test. The neurophysiological and psychological data indicate that the density of eye movement during REM sleep increased after provocation and EMDR, and the left frontal activities might indicate a treatment efficacy. It supports the hypothesis is that REM sleep is intimately involved with the mechanisms of emotional and memory reprocessing.

Keywords: Poster REM

Accuracy Verified: Yes

98. Aubert-Khalfa, S., & Roques, J. (2007, Juin). Modifications des résponses psychophysiologiques au stress chez les patients PTSD aprés une seule séance d'EMDR [Modifications of psychophysiologcal response to stress in PTSD patients after a single EMDR session]. Présentation à la réunion annuelle de l'Association EMDR Europe, Paris, France.

Language: French

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Patients atteints de SSPT démontrer anormale des réponses psychophysiologiques aux événements stressants. Ce dérèglement automatique est donc l'une des mesures objectives de stress post-traumatique qui pourrait également être utilisé pour évaluer les effets traitement du SSPT. Étant donné que la thérapie EMDR semble être un traitement de choix pour les victimes de traumatismes, l'objectif de l'étude était de vérifier que les réponses psychophysiologiques au stress a diminué après une séance EMDR unique. Six patients atteints du SSPT ont été traités par un thérapeute EMDR. Tout d'abord, au niveau clinique, à la fin de la session, les six patients ont eu une réduction très nette de leur niveau de perturbation subjective (SUD), leurs scores SSPT diminué (évaluée par le PLC-S), et leur auto-évaluation ( COV) est devenue positive, confirmant des études antérieures sur l'efficacité de l'EMDR. Deuxièmement, leurs réponses psychophysiologiques (rythme cardiaque, la conductance de la peau, le rythme respiratoire et la température de la peau) pendant un état de détente et tout en visualisant leur propre événement traumatique ont été enregistrées avant et après la session de l'EMDR. Malgré un nombre restreint de patients, après une seule séance EMDR, les réponses physiologiques à l'évocation de l'événement traumatique a diminué de manière significative. Cela comprenait la conductance de la peau, la fréquence cardiaque et la température de la peau. Ces résultats de l'étude préliminaire de confirmer l'efficacité du traitement EMDR sur le SSPT de la première session. Ils mettent également en évidence les effets thérapie EMDR sur le système nerveux autonome. Les changements psychophysiologiques enregistrés peuvent faire partie de mécanismes sous-jacents de traitement EMDR. D'autres études, y compris ces mesures seront donc nécessaires pour tester l'hypothèse.

PTSD patients demonstrate abnormal psychophysiological responses to stressful events. This automatic dysregulation is thus one of the objective measures of PTSD which could also be used to assess therapy effects on PTSD. Given that the EMDR therapy appears to be a treatment of choice for trauma victims, the aim of the study was to verify that the psychophysiological responses to stress decreased after a single EMDR session. Six PTSD patients have been treated by an EMDR therapist. First, at the clinical level, at the end of the session, all six patients had a very clear reduction of their subjective disturbance level (SUD), their PTSD scores diminished (as assessed by PLC-S), and their self-assessments (VOC) became positive, confirming previous studies on EMDR’s efficacy. Second, their psychophysiological responses (heart rate, skin conductance, respiration rate, and skin temperature) during a relaxing state and while visualizing their own traumatic event were recorded before and after the EMDR session. Despite small number of patients, after only one EMDR session, physiological responses to the evocation of the traumatic event decreased significantly. This included skin conductance, heart rate and skin temperature. These preliminary study results confirm the EMDR treatment efficiency on PTSD from the first session. They also highlight the EMDR therapy effects on the autonomic nervous system. The psychophysiological changes recorded may be part of the mechanisms underlying EMDR treatment. Further studies including these measures will therefore be necessary to test the hypothesis.

Keywords: Immersion Stress Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiological Responses PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

99. Willemsen, H., Chowdhury, U., & Briscall, L. (2002, October). Needle phobia in children: A discussion of aetiology and treatment options. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 7(4), 609-619. doi:10.1177/1359104502007004012.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
In this article we review the current literature surrounding needle phobia, concentrating on clinical symptoms, aetiology and treatment options. Clinical symptoms include sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure on exposure to needles followed by an immediate slowing of the heart and decrease in blood pressure (vasovagal reflex). The various schools of thought surrounding aetiology of this condition include biological, psychological and psychodynamic theories. Treatment options vary from simple education and reassurance to medication and specific behavioural approaches. Consideration should be given to past trauma associated with the phobia and relevant family factors. Careful clinical assessment will not only identify the problem but will also help to indicate appropriate treatment options.

Keywords: Behavioural Therapy Needle Phobia Psychotherapy Trauma Vasovagal Reflex

Accuracy Verified: Yes

100. Bossini, L., Poliziotto, N., Tavanti, M., Calossi, S., Lombardelli, A., Vatti, G., & Castrogiovanni, P. (2006, Febbraio). Neuroimaging e PTSD: Dati morfovolumetrici e loro variazioni dopo trattamento [Neuroimaging and PTSD: Facts morfovolumetrici and their changes after treatment]. Presentazione al Congresso XI SOPSI (Società Italiana di Psicopatologia), Roma, Italia.

Language: Italian

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Introduzione: molti studi concordano sulla riduzione del volume ippocampale nei pazienti affetti da PTSD 1 e che tale alterazione anatomica è correlata con deficit cognitivi e con la gravità dei sintomi. Comunque ad oggi non è stato ancora chiarito se l’atrofia ippocampale rappresenta l’esito di un effetto neurotossico del trauma o, piuttosto, una condizione preesistente che predispone allo sviluppo di alcune patologie psichiatriche. Già da tempo studi su animali dimostrano come lo stress causi atrofia ippocampale e inibizione della neurogenesi, con meccanismi verosimilmente legati ai glucocorticoidi, all’increzione del fattore corticotropo, all’aumento degli aminoacidi eccitatori, all’inibizione fattore neurotrofico cerebrale con perdita della plasticità neuronale. Nell’uomo, tuttavia, i risultati non sono così lineari. Da un lato alcuni studi hanno individuato come fattore principale l’aumento dei glucocorticoidi 2, dall’altro tale teoria è stata fortemente criticata 3. Secondo Yehuda il meccanismo di atrofia ippocampale è dovuto ad un’alterazione dell’asse Ipotalamo-Ipofisi-Surrene (HPA), ma in termini di una bassa increzione di glucocorticoidi che determina un aumento del feedback negativo dell’asse stesso ed un’ipersensibilità recettoriale. Indipendentemente dal meccanismo d’azione, la perdita di neuroni a livello ippocampale nei soggetti che hanno subito eventi traumatici sembra sufficientemente dimostrata e, fino a poco tempo fa, era considerata irreversibile. In realtà l’ippocampo sembra presentare una inusuale e spontanea capacità rigenerativa. Questo dato è stato individuato in molte specie animali e, in un unico studio, anche nell’uomo 4. Inoltre recenti evidenze pre-cliniche e cliniche hanno indicato che gli SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) promuovono la neurogenesi e riducono l’atrofia ippocampale indotta dallo stress nell’animale 5 e nell’uomo sono in grado di ridurre i sintomi del PTSD, incrementare le dimensioni dell’ippocampo e ridurre i deficit mnesici tipici della patologia 6 7. Un altro fattore che sembra essere in grado di stimolare la neurogenesi negli animali sembra essere “l’ambiente arricchito” verosimilmente tramite i meccanismi molecolari dell’apprendimento che sembrano in grado di attivare la trascrizione dell’mRNA per il Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor. Questo dato della letteratura supporta il razionale dell’efficacia della psicoterapia anche se l’unico studio che valuta le modificazioni morfostrutturali dopo psicoterapia non ha riportato risultati positivi 8. Gli scopi di questo studio sono: – valutare la presenza di atrofia ippocampale nei pazienti affetti da PTSD (T0-drug-free); – valutare l’effetto della terapia: farmacologica con SSRI e psicoterapica con EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) sia sul piano clinico e neuropsicologico, che sul volume ippocampale, sia sulla memoria (T1). Metodologia: abbiamo analizzato un campione di 20 pazienti, di età compresa tra i 15 ed i 65 anni, reclutati nell’ambulatorio psichiatrico del Policlinico universitario di Siena affetti da PTSD e un gruppo di controllo di soggetti sani appaiati per sesso, età, peso e altezza. I soggetti di entrambi i gruppi sono stati sottoposti ad uno studio morfovolumetrico computerizzato dell’Ippocampo tramite RM (Risonanza Magnetica). Inoltre, i diciassette pazienti con PTSD sono stati valutati tramite la somministrazione di test neuropsicologici e scale psicometriche per approfondire il quadro psicopatologico e valutare l’eventuale presenza di deficit cognitivi. Nei soggetti affetti da PTSD dopo un periodo di sei mesi di terapia psicofarmacologica sono stati ripetuti i test neuropsicologici, le scale psicometriche e l’analisi morfovolumetrica dell’ippocampo tramite RM. Tre pazienti, dopo le valutazioni al T0, hanno effettuato un protocollo terapeutico con solo EMDR e sono stati rivalutati dopo 8 sedute (due mesi). Risultati: i risultati della prima parte sperimentale (T0-drug-free) evidenziano che le dimensioni dell’ippocampo di sinistra nei soggetti affetti da PTSD sono significativamente minori rispetto ai controlli sani. Dai risultati osservati al follow-up (T1-post-terapia) è possibile evincere che la terapia nei soggetti considerati è associata ad un miglioramento della sintomatologia e ad un aumento dei volumi ippocampali, pari al 9,87% per l’ippocampo di destra e dell’8,37% per l’ippocampo di sinistra. Questi dati sono concordi con i dati presenti in letteratura, anche se la percentuale di recupero su base neuroplastica nel nostro studio risulta sensibilmente superiore rispetto ai due studi presenti in letteratura incremento pari al 4,6% 6; pari al 5% 7. I tre pazienti che hanno effettuato terapia con EMDR hanno anch’essi mostrato al T1 un miglioramento sintomatologico (CAPS non più positiva per i criteri diagnostici) ed un aumento medio dei volumi ippocampali pari a 338,25 mm3 per l’ippocampo DX e 357,93 mm3 per l’ippocampo SN. Conclusioni: la terapia nei soggetti considerati si è associata ad un aumento dei volumi ippocampali (9,87%-8,37%). L’aumento dei volumi ippocampali appare rilevante, consistente con i dati in letteratura, sebbene quantitativamente superiore, sottolineando l’efficacia degli SSRI verosimilmente tramite il meccanismo di attivazione della neurogenesi; è ipotizzabile che l’aumento di volume non sia da imputare ad un aumento delle cellule gliali ma ad un aumento di neuroni ippocampali visto il contemporaneo miglioramento clinico. Particolarmente interessante ci sembra il dato relativo all’efficacia clinica e sulla plasticità neurale della EMDR. Questa osservazione su solo tre casi, necessita chiaramente di essere confermata su un campione più ampio ma rappresenta la prima evidenza in letteratura di un’azione della psicoterapia diretta alla struttura cerebrale.

Introduction: Many studies agree on the reduction of hippocampal volume in patients with PTSD and that an anatomical alteration is correlated with cognitive deficits and the severity of symptoms. However to date has not yet been clarified whether hippocampal atrophy is the result of a neurotoxic effect of trauma or, rather, an underlying condition that predisposes to the development of some psychiatric disorders. For some time animal studies show that stress causes hippocampal atrophy and inhibition of neurogenesis, by mechanisms probably related to glucocorticoids, all'increzione corticotropo factor, increased excitatory amino acid, inhibition of brain neurotrophic factor with loss of neuronal plasticity. In humans, however, the results are not so linear. On the one hand, some studies have identified as the main factor increasing glucocorticoid two other such theory was strongly criticized 3. According to Yehuda mechanism of hippocampal atrophy is due to an alteration of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA), but in terms of a low secretion of glucocorticoids leading to an increase of negative feedback axis and the same receptor hypersensitivity . Regardless of the mechanism of action, loss of neurons in hippocampus in people who have suffered traumatic events seems sufficiently established and, until recently, was considered irreversible. In fact, the hippocampus appears to be an unusual and spontaneous regenerative capacity. This figure has been identified in many animal species and in one study in humans 4. Moreover, recent evidence pre-clinical and clinical studies have shown that SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) promote neurogenesis and reduce stress-induced hippocampal atrophy in animals 5 and humans are able to reduce symptoms of PTSD, increase the size of the hippocampus and reduce the deficit mnesic typical of the disease 6 7. Another factor that seems to be able to stimulate neurogenesis in animals seems to be "enriched environment" probably through molecular mechanisms of learning that seem able to activate the transcription of mRNA for Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor. This finding supports the rationale of the literature of the effectiveness of psychotherapy, even if the only study that evaluates changes morphostructural after psychotherapy has shown positive results 8. The aims of this study are: - To evaluate the presence of hippocampal atrophy in patients with PTSD (T0-drug-free) - to assess the effect of therapy: pharmacological SSRI and psychotherapy with EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is a clinical and neuropsychological, and on hippocampal volume, and memory (T1). Methods: We analyzed a sample of 20 patients, aged between 15 and 65, recruited nell'ambulatorio Psychiatric University Hospital of Siena with PTSD and a control group of healthy subjects matched by sex, age, weight and height. Subjects in both groups were subjected to a computerized study morfovolumetrico dell'Ippocampo using MRI (Magnetic Resonance). In addition, seventeen patients with PTSD were assessed through administration of psychometric scales and neuropsychological tests to study the psychopathological picture and evaluate the possible presence of cognitive deficits. In subjects with PTSD after a period of six months of pharmacological therapy were repeated neuropsychological tests, scales psychometric analysis morfovolumetrica hippocampus by MRI. Three patients at T0 after assessments, carried out a treatment protocol with only EMDR and were reassessed after eight sessions (two months). Results: The results of the first experiment (T0-drug-free) show that the size of the left hippocampus in patients with PTSD are significantly lower compared to healthy controls. The results observed during the follow-up (T1-post-therapy) can be inferred that therapy in patients considered to be associated with improvement in symptoms and an increase in hippocampal volume, equal to 9.87% for the right hippocampus and 8, 37% for the left hippocampus. These data are consistent with the data in the literature, although the recovery rate based on neuroplastic in our study is significantly higher than in the two studies in the literature increase of 4.6% 6; 5% 7. The three patients who have treatment with EMDR have also shown an improvement in symptoms at T1 (CAPS no longer positive for the diagnostic criteria) and an average increase in hippocampal volume amounted to 338.25 mm3 for the hippocampus and DX 357, 93 mm3 for the hippocampus SN. Conclusions: Therapy in patients considered was associated with an increase in hippocampal volume (9.87% -8.37%). The increase in hippocampal volume appear to be relevant, consistent with the literature data, although quantitatively greater, stressing the effectiveness of SSRIs probably through the mechanism of activation of neurogenesis, it is conceivable that the increase in volume is attributable to an increase glial cells but an increase of hippocampal neurons seen the simultaneous clinical improvement. Seems particularly interesting given the relative clinical effectiveness of EMDR and neural plasticity. This observation on only three cases, clearly needs to be confirmed on a larger sample but represents the first evidence in the literature of action of psychotherapy directed at brain structure.

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

101. Schottenbauer, M. A., Glass, C. R., Arnkoff, D. B., Tendick, V., & Gray, S. H. (2008, Summer). Nonresponse and dropout rates in outcome studies on PTSD: Review and methodological considerations. Psychiatry: Interpersonal and Biological Processes, 71(2), 134-168. doi:10.1521/psyc.2008.71.2.134.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) represents a frequent consequence of a variety of extreme psychological stressors. Lists of empirically supported treatments for PTSD usually include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), but nonresponse and dropout rates in these treatments often are high. We review the treatment dropout and nonresponse rates in 55 studies of empirically supported treatments for PTSD, review the literature for predictors of dropout and nonresponse, discuss methodological inconsistencies in the literature that make comparisons across studies difficult, and outline future directions for research. Dropout rates ranged widely and may have depended, at least in part, on the nature of the study population. It was not uncommon to find nonresponse rates as high as 50%. Standard methods of reporting dropout and nonresponse rates are needed for reporting outcomes. We suggest guidelines for collecting data to help identify characteristics and predictors of dropouts and nonresponders.

Keywords: CBT Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Literature Review Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Prediction PSTD Treatment Dropouts Treatment Outcomes

Accuracy Verified: Yes

102. Amundsen, J. E., & Karstad, K. (2006, Mai). Om bare Jeppe visste...EMDR og rusbehandling [Integrating EMDR and the treatment of substance abuse]. Tidsskrift for Norsk Psykologforening, 43(5), 469-475.

Language: Norwegian

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Denne artikkelen fokuserer på bruk av EMDR i behandling av klienter med rusmiddelproblemer. Personer i denne kundegruppen synes å vise en høy grad av symptomer knyttet til PTSD. Forfatterne presenterer en teoretisk begrunnelse for behandling av rus og traumer. Under henvisning til 20 forskjellige behandling saker ansette EMDR, viser de hvordan EMDR kan brukes til å hjelpe personer i denne klientgruppen. Potensielle problemer som oppstår under behandlingen blir også diskutert. Forfatterne foreslår at den tradisjonelle EMDR protokollen skal være tilrettelagt for bruk med denne klientgruppen. De konkluderer med at bruken av EMDR i behandling av klienter med rus synes faktisk både nyttig og fordelaktig. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 TFO, alle rettigheter reservert)

This article focuses on the use of EMDR in the treatment of clients with substance abuse. Persons in this client group seem to display a high rate of symptoms related to PTSD. The authors present a theoretical rationale for treatment of substance abuse and trauma. Referring to 20 different treatment cases employing EMDR, they demonstrate how EMDR can be used to help persons in this particular client group. Potential problems arising during treatment are also discussed. The authors suggest that the traditional EMDR protocol should be adapted for use with this client group. They conclude that the use of EMDR in the treatment of clients with substance abuse does indeed seem both useful and beneficial. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved)

Keywords: Client Group Clients Drug Abuse Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Substance Abuse Symptoms Treatment

Accuracy Verified: Yes

103. Wilkinson, D. S. (2008, March). On PTSD. Monitor on Psychology, 39(3), 4, 8.

Language: English

Format: Magazine

Abstract:
It was disappointing that the Institute of Medicine (IoM) panel findings gave so links coverage to Eye Movement Desensirizacion and Reprocessing (EMDR). As a clinician in private practice who has treated active-duty military personnel, the clear advantage that EMDR has over the other treatments for PTSD is how quickly it works and that it is less painful for the client. Exposure therapy can be excruciating for the client and has a high drop-out rate as a result. Medication for PTSD only treats the symptoms.

Keywords: Letter

Accuracy Verified: Yes

104. Taylor, S. (2003, Summer). Outcome predictors for three PTSD treatments: Exposure therapy, EMDR, and relaxation training. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 17(2), 149-162. doi:10.1891/jcop.17.2.149.57432.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Several psychosocial treatments appear to be effective in treating PTSD. However, little is known about the predictors of treatment outcome. It is possible that some variables predict poor outcome for some treatments but not for other treatments. To investigate this issue, outcome predictors were investigated for three 8-session treatments: exposure therapy (entailing prolonged imaginal and in vivo exposure), relaxation training, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). 60 people with PTSD entered and 45 completed treatment. Treatments did not differ in attrition or perceived credibility. Exposure tended to be most effective, and EMDR and relaxation did not differ in efficacy. A number of clinical and cognitive variables were examined to identify predictors of treatment dropouts as well as predictors of the likelihood that patients would be remitted from PTSD after treatment. These analyses were conducted by controlling for treatment condition. Low patient ratings of treatment credibility (assessed in session 2) predicted treatment dropout, regardless of treatment type. Severe reexperiencing symptoms (assessed prior to treatment) predicted poor outcome for relaxation training but not for the other therapies. These findings suggest that treatment outcome could be improved by improving treatment credibility. The findings also support the use of exposure therapy and, to a lesser extent, the use of EMDR in treating PTSD. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adults Brief Psychotherapy Clinical Trial Disability Evaluation Empirical Study Exposure Therapy Follow-up Study Insurance Legal Processes Manual-Based Treatments Quantitative Study Relaxation Therapy Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Random Clinical Trial Reexperiencing RCT Social Security Stressors Survivors Treatment Dropouts Treatment Effectiveness Treatment Outcome

Accuracy Verified: Yes

105. Greenwald, R. (2006, May). The peanut butter and jelly problem: In search of a better EMDR training model. The EMDR Practitioner. Retrieved from http://www.emdr-practitioner.net on 12/18/2008.

Language: English

Format: Other

Abstract:
The evolution of EMDR training is presented through the lens of the author’s personal experience. Current issues and concerns about EMDR training practices and outcomes are highlighted, particularly regarding trainees’ high dropout rate, inadequate case conceptualization and client preparation, and infrequent, inappropriate, or incorrect use of EMDR. Tentative solutions are proposed, along with a call for data to be gathered on outcomes of the various training approaches, to guide future policy re EMDR training models.[Author abstract]

Keywords: Training Model

Accuracy Verified: Yes

106. Elofsson, U. O. E., von Scheele, B., Theorell, T., & Sondergard, H. P. (2008, May). Physiological correlates of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 22(4), 622-634. doi:10.1016/j.janxdis.2007.05.012.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an established treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, its working mechanism remains unclear. This study explored physiological correlates of eye movements during EMDR in relation to current hypotheses; distraction, conditioning, orienting response activation, and REM-like mechanisms. During EMDR therapy, fingertip temperature, heart rate, skin conductance, expiratory carbon dioxide level, and blood pulse oximeter oxygen saturation, were measured in male subjects with PTSD. The ratio between the low and high frequency components of the heart rate power spectrum (LF/HF) were computed as measures of autonomic balance. Respiratory rate was calculated from the carbon dioxide trace. Stimulation shifted the autonomic balance as indicated by decreases in heart rate, skin conductance and LF/HF-ratio, and an increased finger temperature. The breathing frequency and end-tidal carbon dioxide increased; oxygen saturation decreased during eye movements. In conclusion, eye movements during EMDR activate cholinergic and inhibit sympathetic systems. The reactivity has similarities with the pattern during REM-sleep. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Autonomic Physiology Empirical Study Heart Rate Variability Males Orienting Response Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiology PTSD Quantitative Study Respiration Refugees

Accuracy Verified: Yes

107. Kreyer, A. K., & Egon, S. (2008, June). Physiological effects of eye movements of different speeds and eye fixation during engagement in negative autobiographical memories: Experimental research regarding EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, London, England.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract: The aim of the study was to explore the working mechanism of the bilateral stimulation component in EMDR in relation to current hypotheses. Physiological hypotheses (of orienting response and relaxation response) were tested in an analogous experimental setting. Moreover, the clinical advice to use different stimulation speeds for different phases of EMDR was examined at the autonomic level, exploring two different speeds of eye movements. In a within-subject design 42 female students performed 7 short sets each of rapid eye movements (1 Hz), slow eye movements (0.3 Hz) and eye fixation while engaging in negative autobiographical memories. Order of the tasks was counterbalanced. Electrooculogramm (EOG), electrocardiogramm, electrodermal activity and distal pulswave were recorded continuously. Skin conductance level (SCL), heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (RMSSD) and pulse wave transit time (PWTT) were calculated. Performance of the eye movement tasks were controlled through EOG. All three conditions showed a clear-cut de-arousal at stimulation onset, which was 30 indicated by a decrease in HR and SCL and an increase in RMSSD and PWTT. That means, fast and slow eye movements as well as eye fixation initiated a moderate, but clear relaxation response with increased parasympathetic and reduced sympathetic activity. These results suggest that the speed of eye movements do not influence autonomic functions. Furthermore, the results of this study do not support most of the current hypotheses regarding the working mechanism of the bilateral stimulation in EMDR. Alternative explanations are discussed

Keywords: Autobiographical Memories Research

Accuracy Verified: Yes

108. Cahill, P. C., Pontoski, K., & D’Olio, C. M. (2005, September). Posttraumatic stress disorder and acute stress disorder II: Considerations for treatment and prevention. Psychiatry, 2(9), 34-46.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Posttraumatic stress disorder is a common and often chronic and disabling anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to highly stressful events characterized by actual or threatened harm to the self or others. This is the second of two invited articles summarizing the nature and treatment of PTSD and the associated condition of acute stress disorder (ASD). The present article reviews evidence for the efficacy of psychological and pharmacological treatments for PTSD and ASD. In summary, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) has been found efficacious in the treatment of chronic PTSD as well as the treatment of ASD/prevention of PTSD. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, sertraline, paroxetine, and fluoxetine, have been found efficacious in the treatment of chronic PTSD, with sertraline and paroxetine receiving the FDA indication for this condition. There is less evidence for efficacious medications in the treatment of ASD/prevention of PTSD. At present, hydrocortisone and propranolol show the greatest promise. Limitations of these treatments, including dropout and a significant number of patients showing no or only partial response, are discussed as well as issues related to selecting among efficacious treatments.

Keywords: ASD Acute Stress Disorder Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

109. Obenchain, J., Rogers, S., Silver, S., & Goss, J. (1999, November). Preliminary results of data comparing EMDR to flooding. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Miami, FL.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Preliminary Data was collected on a group of Vietnam veterans from10/20/97 to 9/1/98. All Subjects met criteria for PTSD according to DSM IV utilizing the CAPS scale. Patients were then randonly assigned to either the EMDR group or the Flooding group. One therapist completed one EMDR session on the patient’s Primary Combat Image; another therapist completed one session on the PCI using Flooding technique. The head nurse, blind to the treatment provided, met with each subject prior to group assignment and measured their Blood pressure and pulse using DINAMAP Blood Pressure Monitor. He then asked the subjects to keep a SUDS Scale on their PCI noting frequency and intensity for the next week. He also asked them to complete an Impact of Event Scale on their PCI. Subjects then received one session of EMDR or Flooding and were asked to keep a SUDS Scale on their PCI for another week. Subjects then returned to the head nurse, were asked to recall their PCI and blood pressure, pulse and SUDS and IES were again measured. Because of small cell sizes (EMDR =8, Flooding =10) treatment effects did not always reach Statistical significance. Nonetheless several differences were found between the two groups. ANOVA’s were performed using the changes in blood pressure and heart rate measured at a final assessment period during a baseline period and while recalling their PCI. For systolic blood pressure the EMDR group showed no change while the Flooding group increased by 9.2. For diastolic blood pressure the EMDR group declined an average of 3.3 while the Flooding group increased by 7.6. For heart rate, the EMDR group remained essentially unchanged while the Flooding group increased an average of 6.6. This difference was significant at the (p<.05). The EMDR group reported their PCI memories were less severe during the week following treatment while the Flooding group showed little change. ANOVA analysis found these differences to tend toward statistical significance (p=.10). The EMDR group showed improvement on the SUDS scale amd some subscales of the IES.With prelimiary data suggesting that EMDR is more effective than flooding,further research needs to be pursued.

Keywords: Flooding Poster

Accuracy Verified: Yes

110. Lehrer, P. M., Woolfolk, R. L., & Sime, W. E. (2007). Principles and practice of stress management. (3rd. ed.) New York, NY, US: Guilford Press.

Language: English

Format: Book

Abstract:
Recent years have seen significant advances in understanding psychosocial stress and its clinical management. Now in a thoroughly revised and expanded third edition, this comprehensive work reviews effective stress management techniques and their applications for treating psychological problems and enhancing physical health and performance. Bringing together recognized leaders in the field to present their respective approaches and demonstrate the nuts and bolts of intervention, the volume is structured for optimal use as a clinical reference and text. All chapters retained from the prior edition have been extensively rewritten, and many new chapters have been added. Part I examines conceptual foundations and describes basic mechanisms of stress and relaxation. Part II, the largest section, covers the full range of methods, including progressive relaxation, hypnosis, biofeedback, meditation, cognitive methods, and other therapies. Each tightly edited chapter: (1) Details the method's history, theoretical underpinnings, and evidence base; (2) Spells out assessment procedures and techniques; (3) Provides step-by-step implementation guidelines; (4) Considers common treatment obstacles and how to overcome them; (5) Discusses strategies for increasing patient motivation and adherence; and (6) Illustrates the method with an in-depth case example. New to the third edition are chapters on mindfulness meditation, neurofeedback, EMDR, breathing retraining, heart rate variability biofeedback, exercise therapy, and Qigong. Finally, Part III explores applications in mental health, behavioral medicine, and sport psychophysiology (another new topic in this edition), shedding light on which approaches are most suitable for particular problems. The concluding chapter reviews the clinical research literature and offers clear recommendations for improving outcomes. This timely, authoritative book is an indispensable resource for clinical and health psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, counselors, nurses, and other professionals interested in learning and using stress management techniques. It will serve as a text in graduate-level courses in stress management, behavioral medicine, social work in health care, and related areas. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved)

Keywords: Stress Management

Accuracy Verified: Yes

111. Rothbaum, B., & Astin, M. C. (2001, December). Prolonged exposure vs. EMDR for PTSD rape victims. Symposium conducted (B. O. Rothbaum, Chair and T. Keane, Discussant) at the 17th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, New Orleans, LA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Three randomized controlled trials treating PTSD in adult female rape victims will be presented: Patti Resick on long-term follow-up of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) vs Prolonged Exposure (PE); Edna Foa on PE alone or with Cognitive Restructuring (CR); and Barbara Rothbaum on PE vs Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) vs waitlist control.
Prolonged exposure vs. EMDR for PTSD rape victims: This controlled study aimed to evaluate the relative efficacy of Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) compared to a notreatment wait-list control (WAIT) in the treatment of PTSD in adult female rape victims. In this study, 75 Ss with PTSD were randomly assigned to one of the three experimental conditions to achieve 20 completers per treatment group. All assessments were conducted by an Independent Assessor blind to the treatment condition, and standard measures of PTSD and related symptoms were incorporated. The primary goals of this study were to compare the relative efficacy of EMDR and PE, and compare them to the WAIT control group in treating PTSD in rape victims; to gather information on the differential rate of response to treatment; to develop predictors for response to treatment; and to gather information on the long-term response to treatment for six and twelve months following treatment. The mean age of participants was 34.3 (SD = 11.9) and ranges from 18-63 years. Most participants were Caucasian (69%); 24% are African American, 3% are Latino, and 3% are Other. The majority were single (53%), while 28% were married or living with a partner, and19% were divorced or separated. Treated patients were significantly more improved on all of the PTSD symptom categories as well as by PTSD diagnostic status than the WAIT participants immediately post-treatment. Means and standard deviations of PTSD symptom measures and other symptom measures will be presented and compared for participants who received PE, EMDR, and WAIT at Pre-Treatment and Post-Treatment and 6-month follow-up. Saturday, Dec. 8 Concurrent Sessions - Saturday, December 8

Keywords: Prolonged Exposure Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Rape Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

112. Porter, K. (2005, November). Prolonged vs. “dosed” exposure for PTSD: A pilot study. Poster presented at the 21st annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Toronto, Ontario.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Prolonged exposure and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are two empirically validated treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR has several treatment components and findings from dismantling studies indicate that portions of the treatment can be removed without detrimental effects on treatment outcome. The treatment component that has not been tested in a dismantling study is the form of exposure utilized (i.e., “dosed” exposure). This study compared the efficacy and efficiency of prolonged exposure and a dismantled version of EMDR, here labeled “dosed” exposure, for individuals diagnosed with PTSD. The treatments are compared in terms of the participant’s progress, as well as the rate of treatment response. Initial findings from this study will be presented and discussed.

Keywords: Dosed Exposure Poster Prolonged Exposure

Accuracy Verified: Yes

113. Lamprecht, F., Sack, M., Lempa, W., & Eickhoff-Fels, S. (2001). Psychophysiological activation via trauma script in PTSD patients and matched healthy controls and its reversal after succesful treatment. Presentation at the annual meeting of the German Society for Psychotraumatology.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Purpose: It is well known that hyperarousal in PTSD patients leads to an increase in heart rate to trauma related stimuli. The purpose of this study was to see if this peripheral physiological activation in PTSD patients by a trauma script can be reversed by successful trauma treatment including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Methods: 12 PTSD patients fulfilling DSM IV criteria with 52.6 mean level of the impact of event scale (IES) and 8.1 of the subjective unit of distress (SUD) were compared to 12 matched healthy controls (IES level 23, SUD level 4.8). Glued electrodes were placed according to published guidelines for electrophysiological research on thorax (ECG) and palmar skin of the left (non dominant) hand (SCL). Psychophysiological data (heart rate and skin conductance) were recorded continually and stored on a PC card during three conditions: neutral, relaxation and trauma script. In the patient group the procedure was repeated after finishing treatment. Results: The patient group and control group did not differ in the baseline heart rate, however, the stimulation by the trauma script in the PTSD patients was significant in the mean 15.6 (T-2.88) (p < 0.01) increase in heart rate and in the control group 1.6 not significant (the script here was derived from the worst life event). There was a wide variation in the patient group with three patients without any reaction. In those with a strong reaction after trauma script, successful treatment was accompanied by a decline in heart rate response after trauma script, which remained stable during 6 months follow-up. SCL data did not show any consistent relationship. Since this is an ongoing study with increasing numbers and further analysis, additional data will be given during presentation. A decline of the SUD level to 2.3 and within the IES-score to 21 at the three months follow-up measurement was also significant (p < 0.01).

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiological Activation PSTD Trauma Script

Accuracy Verified: Yes

114. Guzzi, R., Bossa, R., & Masaraki, S. (2003). Psychophysiological analysis of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing treatment. Homeostasis in Health and Disease, 42(3), 129-131.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a new controversial treatment that claims to resolve long-standing traumatic memories within few treatment sessions. Evidence based data indicate that EMDR markedly reduces anxiety associated with a traumatic memory already at the first session, and behavioural changes tend to be maintained. In spite of the positive results, critical reviews have outlined some methodological biases in the EMDR previous studies, such as the lacking of a pre and post treatment standardised assessments, lacking of standardised inclusion criteria, poor study design. In the present study we have examined three subjects with PTSD, before and after EMDR therapy. Clinical interviews, psychological tests and self-reports have been administered. Biofeedback measures of electromyographic muscle tension, body temperature, heart rate and skin potential reaction have been used as well. An independent investigator was responsible for the collection of final data. The results showed an interesting trend after treatment compared to baseline. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved)

Keywords: Empirical Study Quantitative Study Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment Outcome/Clinical Trial

Accuracy Verified: Yes

115. Sack, M., Hofmann, A., Wizelman, L., & Lempa, W. (2008). Psychophysiological changes during EMDR and treatment outcome. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 2(4), 239-246. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.2.4.239.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
This study was designed to investigate the question of whether psychophysiological changes during EMDR sessions are related to subjective and objective reduction of PTSD symptoms. During-session changes in autonomic tone in relation to session-to-session changes of subjective stress, trauma-related symptoms, and psychophysiological reactions during a traumatic reminder were investigated in 10 patients suffering from single-trauma PTSD. Treatment duration followed each patient’s individual needs and ranged between 1 and 4 sessions, resulting in a total of 24 EMDR treatment sessions from which psychophysiological data were completely recorded. Treatment with EMDR was followed by a significant reduction of trauma-related symptoms, elimination of the PTSD diagnosis in 8 of the 10 participants, as well as by significantly reduced psychophysiological reactivity to an individualized trauma script. Psychophysiological dearousal in sessions correlated significantly with decrease in script-related reactions in heart rate and parasympathetic tone, and with changes in subjective disturbance. Our results indicate that information processing during EMDR is followed by during-session decrease in psychophysiological activity, reduced subjective disturbance and reduced stress reactivity to traumatic memory.

Keywords: Psychophysiological Assessment Treatment Outcome Working Mechanism

Accuracy Verified: Yes

116. Sack, M., Hofmann, A, Wizelman, L., & Lempa, W. (2007, June). Psychophysiological changes during EMDR - Are they related to treatment outcome?. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Paris, France.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Objective: Dual attention stimulation seems to provoke orienting response like patterns of psychophysiological deactivation during “real-life” EMDR treatment sessions (Sack et al, in review). Objective of this study was to investigate the association of psych-physiological effects during dual attention stimulation with treatment outcome as measured by questionnaire and by psychophysiological reactions during presentations of an individualized trauma script.
Methods: A total of 24 EMDR treatment sessions from 10 patients with PTSD were monitored applying impedance Cardiography. The onset of every stimulation/exposure period was marked and effects within and across stimulation sets on heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (RMSSD), pre-ejection period (PEP) and respiration rate were examined. Heart rate reactivity during presentation of an audiotaped trauma script was measured at beginning of every session and additionally one week before the first session and one week after the last treatment session. Statistical correlations between both subjective (Impact of Event Scale, SUD) and objective (heart rate reactivity) measures of treatment outcome with psychophysiological changes during session (orienting response at beginning of stimulation, slope of HR) were computed.
Results: A significant reduction of trauma-related symptoms was noticed over the course of EMDR treatment: (IES one week pre: 61.2(SD 10.9), IES pre: 55.4(SD 19.0), IES post: 13.3(SD 12.2), F(2,27); 32.6, p < .001). Subjective distress during trauma script decreased significantly (SUD one week pre: 6.6(SD 1.4), SUD pre: 6.9(SD1.4), SUD post: 2.1(SD 1.7); F(2, 27); 31.5, p < .001). The statistical analysis of physiological variables is currently in process. Results will be presented at the conference.
Conclusions: The results of this study will allow further insights into the working mechanism of EMDR.
This study was co-sponsored by EMDREA and EMDRIA-Germany.

Keywords: Medical Treatment Outcome

Accuracy Verified: Yes

117. Sack, M. (2005, June). Psychophysiological monitoring during EMDR – Evidence for stimulation associated changes in autonomic tone. Plenary presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Brussels, Belgium.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
We report about an empirical investigation of EMDR working mechanisms. 55 EMDR sessions were psycho physiologically monitored including start and end of each stimulation set (N = 811). The results demonstrate a sharp increase of parasympathetic tone (RMSSD) and a prolonged decrease of heart rate as soon as stimulation begins. Observations during treatment sessions show a significant psychophysiological dearousal in terms of a decrease of HR and a significant increase of parasympathetic tone. Both the deconditioning hypothesis (dearousal during session) as well as the accelerated information processing hypothesis (enhancement of parasympathetic tone during stimulation) are supported by our empirical results.

Keywords: Mechanism of Action Plenary

Accuracy Verified: Yes

118. Schellong, J. (2010, June). Psychophysiological responsivity to trauma and internal resources in patients with PTSD and healthy subjects. In Research. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This study aims to measure psychophysiological parameters during activation of internal resources k g . positive memories) and to compare these to activated traumatic internal networks. Antecedent studies show that traumatic stimulation on patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) finalizes in various psychophysiological correlates. During therapy of these patients a strong demand for activation of internal resources, i.e. activation of fortitude and positives thoughts, exists. Especially EMDR therapy uses resource stimulating elements such as position of power and absorption in preparation for exposure. In this study standardized EMDR protocols establish a solid basis to explore individual internal resources. Researches on trauma stimuli in EMDR- patients show effects on parasympathetic tonus (Sack 2006) as well as increased cerebral blood flow in defined brain regions (Levin 1999. Lamprecht 2000). Especially the heart rate variability (HRV) may describe the sympatheticovagal balance (Cohen, 2002, Porges 1991). This study focuses on psychophysiological effects and neurobiological regulative mechanisms of stabilizing methods and activation of internal resources in PTSD patients and healthy control group. Methods: Healthy subjects and patients with diagnosed PTSD (DIAX) listened to a commonly neutral script, an individual trauma script and an individual absorption script. Following each script measurements of heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory flow, skin conductance responses (SCR) and skin blood flow (LCF, TU50%) took place. Results: Preliminary results revealed a significant reduced heart rate variability in patients compared to the healthy controls in reaction to the stress script as well as to the positive and the neutral scripts. Conclusion: To our knowledge this is the first time to be proven that altered autonomous functions are found in PTSD not only in reaction to traumatic reminders, but even to a positive, resource activation situation. This provides our basement for further research. Detailed analysis of different effects to each script on both groups are currently underway.

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Research Responsivity Symposium Trauma

Accuracy Verified: Yes

119. Sondergaard, H. P., & Elofsson, U. (2008). Psychophysiological studies of EMDR. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 2(4), 282-288. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.2.4.282.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has been established as an efficacious therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The working mechanism of the procedure is, however, still partly unknown. It is therefore important to explore the physiological effects of eye movements and alternative bilateral stimulation. This article describes our research on the effects of eye movements during authentic EMDR sessions of chronic PTSD in refugees with war and torture experiences and places this research in the context of other findings. The findings point to definite physiological effects of eye movements; namely a dearousal with increased finger temperature and changes in the balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic autonomous nervous systems.

Keywords: Finger Temperature Heart Rate Variability Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiology PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

120. Sondergaard, H. P., von Scheele, B., Garpe, F., Elofsson, U., & Theorell, T. (2004, June). The psychophysiology effects of eye movement in EMDR. In symposium EMDR, biology, and the body (J. Spector, Chair). Symposium conducted at the EMDR Europe Association annual meeting, Stockholm, Sweden .

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
EMDR has in its short time of existence become an established therapy treating PTSD. The importance of the eye movement (EM) has so far been difficult to demonstrate, given that data supporting possible relationships between physiological variables and the therapeutic effect while conducting EM has not yet been recorded. Although theories have been presented, there is no data to support them. Our dismantling case study presents the first preliminary results from actual treatment studies and compares them with suggested theories. The results are based on three EMDR sessions treating a refugee diagnosed with chronic PTSD. In each session, heart rate, skin conductance, finger temptation, EMG, expiratory carbon dioxide, and oxygen saturation were recorded continuously. Our data demonstrates a strong and consistent trend toward an altered physiological state during EM. The directions of physiological change were consistent in all sessions. All alterations indicated raised activitry in the parasympatic nervous system and were thus compatible with the Stickgold hypothesis suggestion that EMDR increases processing of unprocessed traumatic memories through activation of cholinergic systems. Despite the small scale of our study, these novel and interesting findings generate a new fore further research. Our psychophysiological approach appears to be a promising path.

Keywords: Dismantling Study Psychophysiology Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

121. Tal, K. (2013, February 26). PTSD: The futile search for the “Quick Fix”. Scientific American. Retrieved from http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/2013/02/26/ptsd-the-futile-search-for-the-quick-fix/ on 2/26/2013.

Language: English

Format: Magazine

Abstract:
A few weeks ago an article in the Scientific American Twitter stream caught my eye. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) once again debuted as a “promising new treatment” for PTSD. EMDR, which has been repeatedly called “promising” over the last two decades, works only about as well for PTSD as other psychological treatment modalities with which it competes, primarily cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy. These so-called trauma focused treatments (TFT) all garner similar results. TFT have large effects in clinical trials, with two important caveats: 1) the enthusiasm of their various advocates bias the study results towards the treatment the researchers prefer; and, 2) they are effective for a significant number of carefully selected PTSD patients. The sad truth, however, is that current short-term treatments are not the solution for most patients with PTSD. Trial criteria often exclude those with comorbid disorders, multiple traumas, complex PTSD, and suicidal ideation, among others. Even when they are included, comorbid patients drop out of treatment studies at a much higher rate than those with simple PTSD, a problem that has implications for clinical practice. [Excerpt]

Keywords: Blog Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

122. Giovannozzi, G. (2012, June). Regulated eye contact activation and installation protocol [Regulación de la activación del contacto ocular y protocolo de instalación]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Madrid, Spain.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Porges’ polyvagal theory provides a plausible explanation for the covariation between psychiatric and behavioral disorders and the atypical regulation of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). Porges himself associated this phenomenon with the failed maturation of the ventrovagal circuit, as well as with the child’s failure to learn the ability to modulate the so-‐called “vagal break” which keeps the heart-‐rate low and inhibits the influence of the SNS, allowing the modulation of the facial and head muscles and, therefore, the social engagement function, often impaired in psychiatric pathologies. From a psychotherapy standpoint, Porges’ finding that the maturation of the ventrovagal circuit and of its associated braking function occurs ontogenetically later than that of other ANS branches (last months of pregnancy and first year of life) and that a good relation with the caregiver is essential for its development is of significant importance. In this dyad – with the cortical-‐bulbar pathway, sufficiently myelinated at birth, regulating face and head muscles and allowing signals exchange with the caregiver – children learn to confront their internal states and the environment as well as regulate their emotions, regulating an adaptive neuroception with the consequent possibility of a good social involvement. This focus on the first year of life and the caregiver – child dyad, in terms of time and place for the construction of biologically based behaviors common to all human beings, paves the way, as anticipated by Porges himself, for new possible intervention models in psychotherapy directly acting on the missed or impaired steps in this first phase of the psycho-‐physiological development process, without disregarding its psychobiological quality. Clinical Application Since I believe that the inter-‐brain perspective is the most efficient not only for the etiological explanation but especially for the restoration of relational impairments occurred during brain-‐brain interactions, I chose eye contact (EC), because, according to several scholars, it is a privileged communication channel, in particular between mother and child. Several scholars agree that all forms of psychopathology share a failure in emotional regulation, which can be mostly traced back to the failure in the child-‐ caregiver adaptive tuning and therefore to the impairment of their inter-‐brain communication. An intervention on the EC shifts the therapy focus on this dysregulation to restore its functions. The EMDR AIP approach relies on the brain adaptive processing ability. EMDR has proved, in appropriate conditions (good therapeutic alliance, client stabilization, compliance with the EMDR protocol), our brain can repair traumatic injuries, i.e., reacquire and use information dysfunctionally stored after a trauma. Successful use of EMDR on target not directly traceable to a traumatic event (e.g., defenses, chronic pain, etc.) allows for the possibility to use this processing tool in increasingly broad fields and refines its resources. Thanks to its three-‐pronged approach to dysfunctionally stored information in the brain (EMDR works on the cognitive, emotional and somatic level), the inter-‐brain quality of its scope (the therapeutic alliance is part of the healing process) and for its focus on the present (EMDR works on the present, i.e., on the current and active components of the pathogenetic memory, bypassing all mediations and interpretation), EMDR seemed the most appropriate therapeutic tool to intervene on the EC dysregulation found in several psychiatric pathologies. Conclusion An EMDR protocol for the exploration and modulation of the EC is proposed. This protocol proved particularly useful with depressed or severely dissociative clients. After making clients aware of their difficulty in maintaining the EC, they are retrained to use this contact first on objects, then on animals (excellent mediators of a primitive form of social contact) until they are able to achieve eye contact with the therapist. During this training, clients are encouraged to become aware of their body sensations, emotions and beliefs, and the positive ones are installed with BLS. Memories of relational situations where clients identify an impaired EC are identified and these are targeted with the standard protocol. The focus then shifts to present and future situations. The regulation purpose of this protocol affects the application mode: interventions must never be dysregulating, therapists must proceed slowly. Clients must be rigorously kept within their window of tolerance, must be trained to recognize it and able of staying within its boundaries with respect to the microregulation of the EC.

La teoría polivagal de Porges proporciona una explicación plausible para la covariación entre los trastornos psiquiátricos comportamentales y la regulación atípica del sistema nervioso autónomo (ANS). El propio Porgues asoció este fenómeno con el fallo de maduración del circuito ventrovagal, por tanto el niño falla al aprender una habilidad también llamada “bloqueo vagal”, que mantiene la tasa cardiaca baja e inhibe la influencia del SNS, permitiendo la modulación de los músculos faciales y la cabeza, y por tanto, la función optima del compromiso social, a menudo emparejada con patologías psiquíatricas. Partiendo desde un punto de vista psicoterapéutico, Porges encontró que la maduración del circuito ventrovagal y su asociación con la función de frenado ocurre ontogenéticamente después que otras ramas del sistema nervioso autónomo (Los últimos meses del embarazo y los primeros años de vida) y que una buena relación con el cuidador es esencial para su desarrollo es significativamente importante. En esta línea – con vía córtico-‐bulbar, lo suficientemente mielinizada en el nacimiento, regulando los músculos de la cara y la cabeza y permitiendo señales de intercambio con el cuidador-‐ Los niños aprenden a estar cómodos con sus estados internos y con un ambiente que también regula sus emociones, regular una neurorecepción con la consecuente posibilidad de una buena integración social. Centrándonos en el primer año de vida del niño y el cuidador – La pareja de niños, en términos de tiempo y lugar para la construcción biológica fundamentada y basada en todos los seres humanos, allana el camino, como anticipó Porges, para nuevos modelos de intervención en psicoterapia, actuando directamente con el paso perdido o afectado de esta primera fase del proceso de desarrollo psicofisiológico, sin tener en cuenta su calidad psicobiológica. Aplicación Clínica. Desde que creó que la perspectiva del cerebro interior, continúa siendo la más eficiente no solo para desarrollar explicaciones etiológicas, también para la restauración de los desajustes relacionados ocurridos durante las interacciones cerebro-‐cerebro. Escogí contacto visual (ECE), porque, de acuerdo con numerosos investigadores, es un privilegiado canal de comunicación, particularmente eficaz entre una madre y su hijo. Numerosos profesionales afirman que todas las formas de psicopatología comparten una fallo en la regulación emocional, que solo puede crear un error en el la comunicación interna del cerebro. Esta intervención en el EC modifica la terapia y la centra en la desregulación y la restauración de funciones. El enfoque EMDR SPIA está basado en la habilidad de procesamiento de la información relevante, EMDR ha sido probado en condiciones idóneas (buena alianza terapéutica, estabilización de la queja del cliente disgustado con el EMDR.).

Keywords: Installation Protocol Regulated Eye Contact Activation

Accuracy Verified: Yes

123. Holmshaw, M., Hodder, K. I., & Carswell, J. W. (2009, April). The relative efficacy of trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and EMDR in treating psychological trauma resulting from road traffic accidents. Presentation at the annual British Psychological Society Conference, Brighton, UK.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Objectives: Following road traffic accidents (RTAs) psychological problems are common and can cause long-term disability. Whilst both trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) have proved successful in treating such problems there is currently no clear evidence supporting one treatment over the other. Previous comparisons of these treatments have been based on small samples. The present research aimed to explore the relative efficacy of CBT and EMDR in treating psychological trauma resulting from RTAs in a large sample. Design: Patients who had previously been involved in an RTA were referred to a psychological rehabilitation provider and received treatment with either CBT or EMDR by accredited therapists. The treatments were compared on drop-out rate number of sessions required for completion of treatment therapist rating of success and a number of widely used psychometric measures which were administered at assessment and again at the end of treatment. Methods: A total of 1179 referrals were made of which 435 met the inclusion criteria and proceeded to treatment. These patients presented with a range of psychological trauma symptoms resulting from RTAs which had occurred an average of 21 months previously. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was diagnosed in 51 per cent of patients with the remaining patients presenting with travel anxiety depression general anxiety and other psychological conditions. Outcomes were assessed in the whole sample and separately for those with a diagnosis of PTSD. Results: No differences emerged between the treatments on any outcome measure both for patients diagnosed with PTSD and for those with other trauma-related symptoms. Both CBT and EMDR resulted in large improvements in self-rated symptoms as assessed using the psychometric measures and in both groups over 80 per cent of cases were rated by the therapist as successful or having made good progress by the end of treatment. The CBT group required an average of 9.1 sessions and the EMDR group required an average of 9.9 sessions. Reliable change indices showed that over 80 per cent of patients made clinically significant improvements in both treatment groups. Conclusions: In conclusion both CBT and EMDR proved to be effective treatments for psychological trauma resulting from RTAs but no differences emerged between them in terms of efficacy patient compliance and number of sessions required. Psychological trauma following RTAs is eminently treatable in the community when treatment is offered by trained CBT or EMDR therapists.

Keywords: CBT Cognitive Behavior Therapy Road Traffic Accidents

Accuracy Verified: Yes

124. Hogan, R. C. (2012, April). The resolution of grief by guided afterlife connections. Journal of Spirituality & Paranormal Studies, 35(2), 74-80.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
The article presents a study on the effectiveness of grief counseling and post-death experiences in helping the bereaved. It states that 45 clients who had Guided Afterlife Connections experiences were enrolled in the study and Subjective Units of Distress scale (SUDS) and EMDR psychotherapy are used. Results showed that a rate of 10 in the SUDS scale shows that the memory is disturbing and a rate of zero means no disturbing effect.

Keywords: Afterlife Bereavement Death Grief Therapy Memory

Accuracy Verified: Yes

125. Moskovitz, R. A. (2000, December). Saccadic eye movements as a guide to EMDR technique. EMDRIA Newsletter, 5(Special Edition), 14-15.

Language: English

Format: Newsletter

Abstract:
The duration of each set of eye movement is one of several variables that must be managed during EMDR. As we begin to work with patients, we choose the direction and rate of speed of each set of movements as well as the total number of movements per set. The basic guideline calls for 24 bi-directional movements for the first set. While subsequent sets may also consist of 24 passes, the length of the sets may be adjusted up or down depending upon patient response or therapeutic goals. Processing intense emotions, for examples, may call for longer sets, while shorter sets may be sufficient to evoke sequences of cognitive associations. While some therapists prefer to adhere to a rigid protocol, counting out each set, may others determine the length of each set intuitively.

Keywords: Saccadic Eye Movements

Accuracy Verified: Yes

126. Rogers, S., Silver, S. M., Goss, J., Obenchain, J., Willis, A., & Whitney, R. L. (1999, January-April). A single session, group study of exposure and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in treating posttraumatic stress disorder among Vietnam War veterans: Preliminary data. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 13(1-2), 119-130. doi:10.1016/S0887-6185(98)00043-7.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
This report summarizes data gathered thus far from an ongoing study. Two groups (total N = 12) of Vietnam War veterans diagnosed with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) received a single session of exposure or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) focusing on the veterans’ most distressing war experience. Group assignment was random, treatment providers were blind to assessment data, and the pre- and posttreatment assessor was blind to treatment assignment. Both groups showed improvement on the Impact of Event Scale. EMDR treatment resulted in greater positive changes in within-session Subjective Units of Discomfort levels and on self-monitored severity of intrusive recollection. A trend toward decreased heart rate reactivity was observed in both groups. Results must be considered carefully due to the small number of subjects used in the study. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Americans Empirical Study Exposure Therapy Middle Aged Posttrraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Random Clinical Trial RCT Treatment Effectiveness Treatment Outcome/Clinical Trial Veterans Vietnam War

Accuracy Verified: Yes

127. van der Weele, J., & With, A. (2007, June). Stabilization groups with ethnic minority women after domestic violence: Presentation of a model based on structural theory of dissociation, EMDR, intercultural comunication and expressive artwork. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Paris, France.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Alternative to violence has developed a group treatment model structured by the theory of structural dissociation and EMDR trauma treatment theory. Woman with ethnic minority background received short terms group treatment at a shelter for victims of domestic violence at an outpatient clinic and at a domestic violence family treatment center. The groups were supplements to individual therapy/counseling. We have had 10 groups; one with only Pakistani women, several mixed ethnic minority cultural groups with translation and groups in “simple Norwegian.” Recruitment was enhanced by the policy of sharing of symptoms and problems today with no obligation to share about personal past. The model has low drop out rate and therapist working with the individuals report more effective treatment sessions. For some women the group becomes the preferred choice of treatment. We discovered that early phase trauma work can be done in a group format with severely and recently traumatized women. Methods used are resource installation and safe place work, increase awareness of negative/positive cognitions, butterfly hug, nightmare protocol, expressive art therapy techniques as grounding, breathing techniques working with personal borders, working with imagination and playfulness. Structural therapy of dissociation concepts as ANP/EP structures and mental capacity, working from here and now, focusing on the ANP above EP's are woven into how the therapists regulate the group process and plan content. The theory organizes how we handle flashbacks, current acute crisis and how we focus on the womens’ personal trauma. We also teach about the effect of violence in relationships, the need to work on personal safety and the needs of children in the aftermath of violence. Theory from the field of intercultural communication gave us guidelines in working with women from high context, indirect and collectivistic cultures. A workbook for the clients on violence, PTSD symptoms and stabilisation treatment has been developed in the aftermath of these groups and is translated into several languages. We will present the material at the conference in the structure of the early fase trauma treatment group format. Showing in vivo how we apply the theory to severely traumatized women. We will share some of our favorite group exercises, metaphors and group rituals. Our goal is: 1. to show how the theory of structural dissociation serves as guideline for organizing and resulting treatment with severely traumatized clients in groups. 2. Give insight into typical adjustments that have been made to tailor treatment to ethnic minority populations. 3. Explain how expressive art work needs to make adjustments to the population of severely traumatized women. 4. Finally show how the group uses elements from EMDR and enhances individual EMDR work. In our experience, the stabilisation groups have integrated the heart, mind and body in the work of healing with a population that is often found difficult to treat effectively. We hare started to retain other therapists in using the model and are in the process of applying for a research grant.

Keywords: Artwork Domestic Violence Dissociation Ethnic Intercultural Communication Minority Stabilization Women

Accuracy Verified: Yes

128. Pelling, N., Brear, P., & Lau, M. (2006, June). A survey of advertised Australian counsellors. International Journal of Psychology, 41(3), 204-215, doi:10.1080/00207590544000202.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
As counselling is a developing profession without statutory regulation in Australia, anyone can engage in counselling practice and use “counsellor” as a professional title. Not much is known about those who call themselves counsellors in Australia. This survey research in a field setting aimed to describe Australian Yellow Pages Advertised Counsellors, thus providing a snapshot of advertised counsellors in Australia. This research was thus designed to describe those who are engaging in advertised counselling practice in Australia. Data was collected using a multiple mailing survey method and resulted in a 62.2% return rate. The counsellors' (1) demographic characteristics, (2) counselling training and development, (3) provision of counselling services, and (4) professional involvement were assessed. Advertised Australian counsellors tend to be female, mature, Caucasian, married or partnered, heterosexual, have families, and hold Christian beliefs. The majority of counsellors live in urban areas. The field could arguably benefit from increasing the diversity of its members. Nevertheless, advertised Australian counsellors are qualified professionals who tend to hold university qualifications and are likely to have received their training in counselling from a university provider. They are experienced service providers and engage in ongoing supervision as a supervisee. Moreover, these counsellors are involved in a variety of professional organizations. Advertised Australian counsellors, however, often struggle with issues related to burnout. They demonstrate their belief in the power of counselling by engaging in personal counselling. Advertised Australian counsellors actively engage in professional development, read professional journals, and report wanting further training regarding cognitive behaviour therapy, family therapy, EMDR, hypnosis, and trauma‐related difficulties. The majority of counsellors indicate making $40,000 or less per year. Survey results clearly indicate that the professionalisation of counselling is underway. Tandis que le counseling est une profession en développement sans régulation statutaire en Australie, n'importe qui peut s'engager dans la pratique du counseling et utiliser le titre professionnel de “conseiller.” Très peu est connu sur ceux qui se prétendent conseillers en Australie. Cette enquête visait à décrire les conseillers annonçant dans les pages jaunes en Australie, permettant d'avoir une image de ces derniers. Elle cherchait donc à décrire ceux qui étaient engagés dans la pratique du counseling publicisé en Australie. Les données furent collectées par le biais d'une méthode d'enquête par multiples envois postaux résultant à un taux de réponse de 62,2%. Les facteurs évalués chez les conseillers incluent: (a) les caractéristiques démographiques, (b) la formation et le développement en counseling, (c) les services desservis et (d) l'implication professionnelle. Les conseillers australiens publicisés tendent à montrer les caractéristiques suivantes: femmes, matures, caucasiens, mariés ou en couple, hétérosexuels, ayant une famille et ayant des croyances chrétiennes. La majorité des conseillers vivent dans les zones urbaines. Le domaine peut sans conteste bénéficier d'une plus grande diversité de ses membres. Néanmoins, les conseillers australiens publicisés sont des professionnels qualifiés qui tendent à posséder des qualifications universitaires et qui sont susceptibles d'avoir reçu leur formation en counseling d'une université. Les conseillers australiens publicisés sont des professionnels d'expérience et sont engagés dans de la supervision en tant que supervisés. De plus, ces conseillers sont impliqués dans une variété d'organizations professionnelles. Cependant, ils font souvent face à des problèmes reliés au burn‐out. Ils montrent leur croyance dans le pouvoir du counseling en recevant eux‐mêmes des services de counseling. Les conseillers australiens publicisés s'engagent activement dans le développement professionnel, ils lisent des revues professionnelles et ils rapportent vouloir davantage de formation sur la thérapie cognitivo‐comportementale, la thérapie familiale, la désensibilisation et le retraitement du mouvement de l'oeil, l'hypnose et les difficultés reliées aux traumatismes. La majorité d'entre eux indique faire 40,000$ ou moins par année. Les résultats de cette enquête indiquent clairement que la professionnalisation du counseling est sur la bonne voie. Debido a que en Australia el consejo es una profesión en desarrollo sin reglamentación estatutaria, cualquier persona pued.

Keywords: Counseling Counselor Characteristics Counselors Counselor Education Empirical Study Professional Development Professional Organizations Quantitative Study

Accuracy Verified: Yes

129. Newman, K. (2006, November). Synthesis of previous research on eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Psychology 203,Mary Baldwin College, Staunton,VA..

Language: English

Format: Other

Abstract:
In 1987, Professional School of Psychological Studies graduate student Francine Shapiro was on a walk in the park when she personally observed that randomized eye movements seemed to make disturbing thoughts less upsetting (Colwell, 2000). From this initial experience Shapiro created the therapy known as Eye Movement Desensitization (EMD), integrating rhythmic eye movements with “other treatment elements” (EMDR 2004). Shapiro investigated this phenomenon further in a controlled study on twenty-three subjects with traumatic memories and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms. In the study, the subjects were first asked to rate their feelings of discomfort regarding a particular traumatic memory using the Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUDs) scale which uses a 0 – 10 rating system to express emotional distress. Subjects were also asked to think of a Positive Self-Statement (PSS) they would like to attach to the memory, erasing a negative one. The subjects then evaluated their confidence in the truth of the PSS on a scale from 1 - 7, where one was completely false, and seven were completely true. On average, before treatment the subjects reported a SUDs score of seven and expressed the validity of the PSS as four. After a single EMD session, subjects on average evaluated the memory as less than one on the SUDs scale, and the positive self-thought was receiving ratings above six. These results remained consistent three months later (Lipke & Botkin, 1992), leading Shapiro claim in her dissertation that “a single session of the procedure was sufficient to desensitize subjects” (EMDR, 2004). The publication of Shapiro’s dissertation came nine years after the American Psychiatric Association added Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder to the DSM-III in 1980 (Friedman, 2006), and EMD quickly became a popular PTSD treatment.

Keywords: Literature Review Research

Accuracy Verified: Yes

130. Mendes, D. D., Mello, M. F., Ventura, P., Passarela, Cde. M., Mari, J. de J. (2008). A systematic review on the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder. International Journal of Psychiatry Medicine, 38(3), 241-259. doi:10.2190/PM.38.3.b.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Objective: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common psychotherapy approach for the treatment of PTSD. Nevertheless, previous reviews on the efficacy of several types of psychotherapy were unable to detect differences between CBT and other psychotherapies. The purpose of this study was to conduct systematic review on the efficacy of CBT in comparison with studies that used other psychotherapy techniques. Method: Databases were searched using the following terms: posttraumatic stress disorder/stress disorder, treatment/psychotherapy/behavior cognitive therapy, randomized trials, and adults. Randomized clinical trials published between 1980 and 2005 and that compared CBT with other treatments for PTSD was included. The main outcomes were remission, clinical improvement, dropout rates and changes in symptoms. Results: The 23 clinical trials included in the review comprised 1,923 patients: 898 in the treatment group and 1,025 in the control group. CBT had better remission rates than EMDR (RR = 0.35; 95%CI: 0.16; 0.79; p = 0.01) or supportive therapies (RR = 0.43; 95%CI: 0.25; 0.74; p = 0.002, completer analysis). CBT was comparable to Exposure Therapy (ET) (RR = 0.90; 95%CI: 0.58; 1.40; p = 0.64), and cognitive therapy (CT) (RR = 1.01; 95%CI: 0.67; 1.51; p = 0.98) in terms of efficacy and compliance. Conclusions: These findings suggest that specific therapies, such as CBT, exposure therapy and cognitive therapy are equally effective, and more effective than supportive techniques in the treatment of PTSD.

Keywords: CBT Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Comparative Study Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Systematic Review

Accuracy Verified: Yes

131. Sivan, A. (2008, June). Therapists’ views on the use of EMDR: The case of Hong Kong. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, London, England.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Since the introduction of EMDR training courses in Hong Kong a few years ago, the method has been gaining an enormously growing interest among professionals. One of the indications to the growing interest in EMDR is the high rate of participation in the training courses. While there is a volume of studies on the efficacy of EMDR among different populations, therapists’ viewpoints on its use has not been studied extensively. The purpose of the paper is to examine the views of therapists who have undergone EMDR training in Hong Kong and have used the method in their practice. Data were collected through an open-ended questionnaire and follow-up in depth interviews with a group of therapists. The questionnaire sought information about their initial experience of using EMDR, the types of patients they used it with, the contribution of the method to the therapy and the difficulties they encountered. Follow-up interviews aimed to shed more light on issues raised by the respondents and to provide a platform for their further elaboration. Participants’ responses indicated the positive effects EMDR use on clients and its facilitation of the therapy process. The respondents indicated difficulties in following the exact EDMR protocol especially in relation to the terminology such as: “completely false”, “completely true”, “emotions” and “sensation”. Additional issues raised around the use of the scales and of different bilateral stimulations. On the basis of these finding special consideration should be given to the adaptation of the EMDR protocol to the Chinese language and way of thinking.

Keywords: Hong Kong

Accuracy Verified: Yes

132. Greenwald, R. (2000). The trauma orientation and child therapy. In K. N. Dwivedi (Ed.), Post-traumatic stress disorder in children and adolescents (pp. 7-24). London: Whurr Publishers.

Language: English

Format: Book Section

Abstract:
Trauma is proposed as a key to understanding the development and persistence of conduct disorder in conjunction with other contributing factors. Trauma history is virtually universal in this population, and trauma effects can help to account for many features of the disorder including lack of empathy, impulsivity, anger, acting out, and resistance to treatment. The current standard of care fails to fully address trauma, which may partially explain the low success rate. A trauma-focused individual therapy approach is presented as one example of how this population might be more effectively treated. This approach features motivational interviewing, self-control training, and trauma resolution and integrates eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Two illustrative case examples are presented and discussed. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: Adolescents Assessment Children Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Stressors Survivors

Accuracy Verified: Yes

133. Brown, P. A. (2012). Trauma research and treatment of combat veterans: An evidence-based integrative literature review. California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, CA.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
The mainstream treatments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are Cognitive Behavioral and Prolonged Exposure Therapies (CBT & PE). These closely studied evidence based treatments also show high relapse, dropout, and failure rates of up to half of those treated (Bryant, R., et al., 2008, p. 555). While not as well researched and harder to measure in terms of the gold standard in Evidence Based Practice of Psychology (EBPP), studies of “alternative” treatments and their methods, yield different and interesting evidence. Using the standards espoused by EBPP alongside alternative movements, this study examined modalities used in veterans’ treatment. A guiding question was “What can the field of trauma studies learn from a systematic and comparative review of the research and treatment of combat veterans suffering the sequelae of trauma?” Included in this integrative literature review—which generates a critique and theoretical synthesis of a body of literature (Torraco, R., 2005, p. 356)—were peer-reviewed studies from 2006-2010. The participating studies consisted largely of Veterans Administration (VA)-funded, CBT/PE treatments, with an average of over 32 patients per participating study, of approximately 13 weeks duration, and where 20% of patients avoided treatment, 25% dropped out, and 30% failed treatment altogether. Concept matrix analysis of data included distillation of essential statements further reflecting poor tolerability, dropout, failure, and an inability to maintain symptom reductions (75% of studies). Authors tended to overstate positive effects while omitting adequate examination of study design and construct validity, leading to dearth bias, defined as scarcity of evidence hiding behind citations. From this integrative review of the literature a reconceptualization and agenda for future research emerged. The reconceptualization stems from the usefulness of hybridized efficacy and effectiveness research, self-reflection and bracketing, and more accounting for dearth bias. The future agenda recommends practitioners use concept matrices as iv research and practice tools, conduct more common factors research, and develop more clinical practice-based evidence. Especially as related to knowledge evaluation, increased accountability, and system-wide change, these recommendations can assist the spread of more diverse and useful EBPP, to help relieve some of the pain of the traumatized combat veteran.

Keywords: Combat Veterans Literature Review

Accuracy Verified: Yes

134. Greenwald, R. (2000, April). A trauma-focused individual therapy approach for adolescents with conduct disorder. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 44(2), 146-163. doi:10.1177/0306624X00442002 .

Language: English

Format: Journal

Keywords: Adolescents Cognitive Therapy Disruptive Behavior Disorders Individual Psychotherapy Males Psychiatric Inpatients Psychotherapeutic Processes Stressors Survivors

Accuracy Verified: Yes

135. Wells, A., & Colbear, J. S. (2012, April). Treating posttraumatic stress disorder with metacognitive therapy: A preliminary controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 68(4), 373-381. doi:10.1002/jclp.20871.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Objectives: Exposure, trauma-focused cognitive therapy and eye-movement desensitisation and re-processing (EMDR) are effective treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) producing equivalent outcomes. How might the field advance? One way is to base new treatments on PTSD maintenance mechanisms. A treatment that does this, metacognitive therapy (MCT), underwent preliminary controlled evaluation in this study. Method: Twenty participants aged 18 to 65 years with chronic PTSD were randomly allocated to either a total of 8 sessions of MCT or a delayed treatment control. Measures of PTSD, emotional symptoms, and underlying metacognitive variables were obtained at pretreatment and posttreatment. Patients were followed-up at 3 and 6 months postintervention. Results Statistically significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, depression, and anxiety at posttreatment were observed in the MCT group but not in the control group. Changes were maintained over follow-up. The average number of sessions delivered was 6.4. Eighty percent of patients (intention to treat) met clinical significance criteria for recovery based on the IES. Treatment was well tolerated with only one (10%) dropout. Changes in thought control strategy hypothesized to be involved in the maintenance of PTSD were found. Conclusions: MCT appeared to be a brief treatment producing high recovery rates. The data add to existing uncontrolled evaluations and provide strong justification for future evaluation of this treatment against existing evidence-based interventions. [Abstract from author].

Keywords: Cognitive Therapy Metacognition Metacognitive Therapy Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Stress

Accuracy Verified: Yes

136. van den Berg, D. P. G., & van der Gaag, M. (2012, June). Treating trauma in psychosis with EMDR: A pilot study. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 43(1), 664-671. doi:10.1016/j.jbtep.2011.09.011.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Background: Initial studies have shown that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be effectivelytreated in patients with a psychotic disorder. These studies however used adapted treatment protocols, avoided direct exposure to trauma related stimuli or preceded treatment with stabilizing techniques making treatment considerably longer in duration. Method: An open trial in which adult subjects with a psychotic disorder and a comorbid PTSD (n = 27) received a maximum of six Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy sessions. PTSD symptoms, psychotic symptoms and additional symptoms were assessed at baseline and end-of-treatment. Results: The dropout rate was 18.5 percent (five subjects). Only five of the twenty-two completers (22.7%) still met criteria for PTSD after treatment. PTSD symptoms, auditory verbal hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem all improved significantly. Paranoid ideation and feelings of hopelessness did not improve significantly. Treatment did not lead to symptom exacerbation in subjects. There were no adverse events, such as suicide attempts, self-mutilation, aggressive behavior or admission to a general or psychiatric hospital. Conclusions: This pilot study shows that a short EMDR therapy is effective and safe in the treatment of PTSD in subjects with a psychotic disorder. Treatment of PTSD has a positive effect on auditory verbal hallucinations, delusions, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, and self-esteem. EMDR can be applied to this group of patients without adapting the treatment protocol or delaying treatment by preceding it with stabilizing interventions.

Keywords: Auditory Delusions Pilot Posttraumatic Stress PTSD Psychosis Psychotic Disorder Self-Esteem Treatment Verbal Hallucination

Accuracy Verified: Yes

137. Matthieu, M., & Ivanoff, A. (2006). Treatment of human-caused trauma: Attrition in the adult outcomes research. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 12(21), 1654-1664. doi:10.1177/0886260506294243.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Attrition or dropout is the failure of a participant to complete, comply, or the prematurely discontinuation or discharge from treatment, resulting in lost data and affecting outcomes. This review of 10 years of adult posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment outcome literature specific to Criterion A events of human origin examines how attrition is defined and addressed, methodologically and statistically. Of the 13 experimental or quasi-experimental studies, 11 report attrition information. Compared to treatment completers, attriters more often had elevated pretest scores on PTSD and other symptom measures. The characteristics of dropouts given the intentional nature of the traumatic events reviewed in this study are shared to inform clinical practice. Recommendations for consistent methods in examining, analyzing, and interpreting treatment outcome data are also discussed.

Keywords: Attrition Dropout Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment Outcome

Accuracy Verified: Yes

138. de Jongh, A. (2004, June). The treatment of phobias with EMDR: Principle, protocol, and procedure. Preconference presentation at the EMDR Europe Association annual meeting, Stockholm, Sweden .

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Installation of Future Template: a. Ask the client to mentally progress in time to identify an image (stationary picture) of a situation which he considers as desired and in which he acts adequately (there should be no negative or catastrophic aspects in the picture or in client's behavioral response). This image should represent an 'optimal response' to the situation. b. Install an appropriate positive belief statement (i.e., "I can handle it") by bringing up the future image and keeping in mind the belief statement while engaging in sets of eye movements (like in the installation phase of the standard protocol). c. After each SEM check the VoC by asking:"As you hold that image in mind, how true do the words (state the PC "I can handle it") feel to you now on a scale from 1 to '7, where 1 represents "It feels completely false" and 7 represent "It feels completely true?". Clontinue as long as the client reports a strengthening of validity. d. Check client's self-efficacy with: "To what extent do you believe you are able to actually handle this situation?" and rate this using a VoC scale. Continue with installing the PC as long as the client reports a strengthening of his self-efficacy. [Excerpt]

Keywords: Phobias

Accuracy Verified: Yes

139. van der Kolk, B. A., Hopper, J., Spinazzola, J., Blaustein, M., Hopper, E., & Simpson, W. (2003, October/November). Treatment outcome of fluoxetine vs. EMDR in PTSD. Symposium conducted (B. A. van der Kolk, Chair) at the 19th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Chicago, IL.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Treatment Outcome Studies of PTSD: This symposium presents three large carefully controlled treatment outcome studies using four different treatment modalities (CBT, EMDR, psychopharmacology and Cognitive Processing) and presents data on comparative efficacy, treatment responsiveness and resistance, effects on comorbidity, quality of life, and biological changes that accompany symptom improvement.

Treatment outcome of fluoxetine vs. EMDR in PTSD: This NIMH funded study compared the efficacy of two widely different treatment approaches for treating patients with PTSD: fluoxetine, which acts directly on biological systems (N=30), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) (N=30). There also was a pill placebo control group (N=30). We assessed subjects with a multi-modal biological and psychological assessment, in order to determine whether treatment efficacy is associated with changes: 1) social adjustment, 2) psychophysiological reactivity to personalized trauma scripts (heart rate and skin conductance), and 3) basal salivary cortisol. We also tracked the stability of symptom change for nine months following the cessation of active treatment. Preliminary results suggest that at the end of 8 weeks of treatment, there is a 30% improvement in the pill placebo condition, while both active treatments demonstrate additional symptom improvement, with EMDR being most effective for the treatment of acute PTSD, and Prozac for subjects with prolonged childhood histories of trauma. Clinically significant improvement in CAPS scores is accompanied by an increase in basal cortisol and improvement in social and occupational functioning. We will also present data on the differential rates of symptom change in the different PTSD symptom clusters between the two treatment groups during the nine months of follow- up after cessation of the acute treatment phase.

Keywords: Fluoxetine Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

140. Wesselmann, D. (2013, April). Using EMDR to treat attachment trauma in adults and children. Preconference presentation at the Congress EMDR Vereniging EMDR Nederland, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Trauma experienced within the earliest attachment relationships leave children and adults at great risk for the development of psychiatric disorders. Maltreatment by attachment figures and traumatic losses are both closely associated with attachment disorganization, the attachment category identified in 70% of patients in psychiatric hospitals. Research shows insecure and disorganized attachments to be transmitted transgenerationally at a rate of between 70 and 80%.Adults and children with disturbed attachments frequently experience severe emotional dysregulation along with intense feelings of despair, anxiety, shame, and mistrust of others. Affected children and adults frequently lack helpful or adaptive information or insights and exhibit behaviors that elicit negative responses from those around them. Due to heavy defenses and poor self-regulation and self-awareness, patients suffering from attachment trauma are traditionally difficult to treat. However, with proper adaptations, the EMDR approach becomes a powerful method for healing attachment injuries in adults, children, and parent-child dyads. Participants will learn creative methods of adapting EMDR for the special challenges that accompany attachment injury. Participants will learn to utilize attachment resource development techniques designed to strengthen the capacity for closeness, trust, and self-compassion. They will discover how to coach an attachment figure to provide emotional regulation and help with cognitive interweaves. Participants will be able to write a therapeutic story to help process pre-verbal trauma and develop adaptive information for successful reprocessing. Creative interweaves, contained reprocessing, and methods for weaving together of past, present, and future will help participants experience successful EMDR with their most challenging cases. Case studies, video, and EMDR/attachment research will be presented.

Keywords: Adults Children Trauma Attachment

Accuracy Verified: Yes

141. Zantvoord, J. B., Diehle, J., & Lindauer, R. J. (2013, March). Using neurobiological measures to predict and assess treatment outcome of psychotherapy in posttraumatic stress disorder: Systematic review. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 82, 142-151. doi:10.1159/000343258.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Background: Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are effective treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder. However, little is known about their neurobiological effects. The usefulness of neurobiological measures to predict the treatment outcome of psychotherapy also has yet to be determined. Methods: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focused on neurobiological treatment effects of TF-CBT or EMDR and trials with neurobiological measures as predictors of treatment response. Results: We included 23 publications reporting on 16 separate trials. TF-CBT was compared with a waitlist in most trials. TF-CBT was associated with a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure and changes in activity but not in volume of frontal brain structures and the amygdala. Neurobiological changes correlated with changes in symptom severity. EMDR was only tested against other active treatments in included trials. We did not find a difference in neurobiological treatment effects between EMDR and other treatments. Publications on neurobiological predictors of treatment response showed ambiguous results. Conclusion: TF-CBT was associated with a reduction of physiological reactivity. There is some preliminary evidence that TF-CBT influences brain regions involved in fear conditioning, extinction learning and possibly working memory and attention regulation; however, these effects could be nonspecific psychotherapeutic effects. Future trials should use paradigms aimed specifically at these brain regions and physiological reactivity. There are concerns regarding the risk of bias in some of the RCTs, indicating that methodologically more rigorous trials are required. Trials with neurobiological measures as predictors of treatment outcome render insufficient results to be useful in clinical practice. Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Keywords: Neurological Measures Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD TF-CBT Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Accuracy Verified: Yes

142. Russell, M. (2012, March 23). War atrocities in Afghanistan: Who is blameworthy?. Huffington Post. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-c-russell-phd-abpp/robert-bales-mental-health-_b_1371478.html on 3/26/2012.

Language: English

Format: Other

Abstract:
When Politics Trumps Science in Military Mental Health Care In January 2011, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigated the DVA's indefensible decision to limit veterans' access to two of its homegrown PTSD treatments --Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) -- while excluding external competitors, like EMDR, developed outside the DVA. For instance, despite billions of dollars spent by the DVA/DoD to research PTSD treatments (e.g., massage, art therapy, marijuana derivatives, etc.), no EMDR research has been conducted since the wars began -- a blatant disregard of military medicine's mission to ensure that all war veterans have unrestricted access to the highest quality mental health treatment possible. Scientific and personal bias should never enter into the equation. The status quo is even more inexplicable when in February, 2012, the DVA informs the Congressional Budget Office that only 40 percent of VA PTSD patients successfully complete PTSD treatment -- a 60 percent wash-out rate! In stark contrast, randomized controlled trials of EMDR in 1998 with Vietnam combat veterans demonstrated that 77 percent of veterans no longer had PTSD diagnosis after 12 sessions -- with no drop-out [2]. Promising results; however, 1998 marked the last EMDR research trial the DVA has funded. [Excerpt]

Keywords: Afghanistan Blog Military Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Veterans War

Accuracy Verified: Yes

143. van Minnen, A., Hendriks, L., & Olff, M. (2010, April). When do trauma experts choose exposure therapy for PTSD patients? A controlled study of therapist and patient factors. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 48(4), 312-320. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2009.12.003.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
To investigate when and why therapists opt for or rule out imaginal exposure (IE) for patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 255 trauma experts were randomized to two conditions in which they were presented with four cases in which the patients’ comorbidity and treatment preferences were manipulated. The results confirmed IE to be an underutilized approach, with the majority of professionals being undertrained in the technique. As predicted, the patient factors influenced the expert’s choice of therapy: in case of a comorbid depression, IE was significantly less preferred than medication. Also, IE was significantly more likely to be offered when patients expressed a preference for traumafocused treatment. The therapist factors were also found to be importantly related to treatment preferences, with high credibility in the technique being positively related to the therapists’ preference for IE. Perceived barriers to IE, such as a fear of symptom exacerbation and dropout, were negatively related to the perceived suitability of the treatment when patients had suffered multiple traumas in childhood. The results are discussed in the light of clinical implications and the need of exposure training for trauma professionals.

Keywords: Controlled Study: Exposure Therapy Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

144. Sack, M. (2008, September). Wirkmechanismen von EMDR [Work mechanisms in EMDR]. Pre-Congress presentation at the 11th Congress of the European Society of Hypnosis in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Vienna, Austria.

Language: German

Format: Conference

Abstract:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) ist ein expositionsbasiertes Verfahren zur Behandlung von Patienten mit posttraumatischen Belastungsstörungen (PTSD). Während die Wirksamkeit der EMDR-Behandlung empirisch gut nachgewiesen ist, besteht nach wie vor Unklarheit, ob die beim EMDR eingesetzte bilaterale Stimulation durch Augenbewegungen einen spezifischen Effekt hat. Wir stellen Ergebnisse aus mehreren Studien zum Monitoring autonom-vegetativer Parameter während Traumatherapiesitzungen mit EMDR vor. Es lässt sich unmittelbar nach Beginn der Augenbewegungen ein starker Anstieg des Parasympathikotonus und ein Abfall der Herzfrequenz beobachten. Diese
Reaktion erstreckt sich über etwa 10 Sekunden und entspricht damit dem Verlaufsmuster einer so genannten Orientierungsreaktion auf einen neuen Stimulus. Im Sitzungsverlauf zeigt sich, dass die Herzfrequenz abfällt und der Parasympathikotonus ansteigt. Damit liefern unsere Befunde eine empirische Bestätigung für die Hypothese, dass es während EMDR-Sitzungen zu Orientierungsreaktionen kommt. Nach unserer Einschätzung werden durch die bilaterale Stimulation biologische Ressourcen aktiviert, die eine Verarbeitung traumatischer Erinnerungen begünstigen.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an exposure based method for the treatment of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the effectiveness of EMDR treatment is well established empirically, there is still uncertainty whether the bilateral stimulation used in EMDR by eye movements has a specific effect. We present results of several studies on vegetative-autonomous monitoring parameters before, during trauma therapy sessions with EMDR. It can be observed immediately after the start of eye movement, a sharp increase parasympathetic tone and a decrease in heart rate. This reaction extends over about 10 seconds and corresponds to the pattern during a so-called orientation reaction to a new stimulus. During the session shows that decreases the heart rate and increases the parasympathetic tone. Thus our findings provide empirical confirmation for the hypothesis that during EMDR sessions is to guide responses. In our view be activated by bilateral stimulation of biological resources, encourage the processing of traumatic memories.

Keywords: Bilateral Stimulation BLS Mechanisms Vegetative-Autonomous Monitoring Parameters

Accuracy Verified: Yes