Francine Shapiro Library - EMDR Bibliography Links
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1. Grenough, M. (2007, September). 4 brief strategies to calm, relax, and re-wire the brain. Presentation at the annual meeting of EMDR International Association, Dallas, TX.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Looking for calm in the chaos – for you and your clients? Examine findings of recent research regarding the brain’s neuroplasticity and our ability to re-wire our own brains. Learn four 60-second strategies that can calm, relax, heighten sense of personal control, diminish power of old patterns, and strengthen healthy neural pathways. Understand, and be able to explain to clients, how research testifies to the efficacy of these simple strategies and how their implementation can be useful in EMDR treatment. In this highly experiential workshop, you will learn four strategies and explore how/when to use each with your clients – and with yourself.
Keywords: Relaxation
Accuracy Verified: Yes
2. Dworkin, M. (2008, September). Advanced clinical strategies for clients with complex PTSD and dissociation. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Phoenix, AZ.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Clients with complex PTSD and dissociation present many challenges. The neurosciences have helped us to begin to understand and deal with them through a recent clarification of mirror neurons and associated neural structures in both the clinician and client. Concepts from the Boston Change Process Study Group and ego state therapy provide methods of analyzing and intervening in the “microprocesses” that occur in treatment. Hoppenwasser’s concept of “dissociative attunement” challenges thinking about the “multiple self states” both clinician and client operate from. Her ideas push us to rethink current conceptualizations of relatedness. Participants will learn how to deal with ruptures in positive empathy that may result in the history taking, assessment, and desensitization phases. In the preparation phase, participants learn to use the therapeutic relationship as an additional resource for containment. Concepts of dyadic regulation of affect, now moments and moments of meeting will be taught to deal with ruptures to the therapeutic relationship throughout treatment. Dealing productively with countertransference ruptures poses additional challenges. Participants will learn a strategy called the “relational interweave”. Its function is to restore EMDR processing when an interpersonal “event” has temporarily derailed the work. A practicum using Dworkin’s Clinician Self Awareness Questionnaire will be held in the afternoon part of the workshop to enhance learning this strategy.
Keywords: Complex Posttraumatic Stress DIsorder Complex PTSD C-PTSD Dissociation
Accuracy Verified: Yes
3. 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
4. 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
5. Cortés, C. (2012, June). Ayudando a desarrollar el sistema de procesamiento de la información para la reconstrucción del apego en niños adoptados [Helping to develop the adaptive information system for attachment reconstruction in adopted children]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Madrid, Spain.
Language: Spanish
Format: Conference
Abstract:
EMDR
is
based
on
the
adaptive
information
system
model.
Humans
have
an
inherent
information
processing
system
that
generally
processes
the
complex
elements
of
an
experience
to
an
adaptive
state.
In
other
words,
we
have
the
innate
capacity
to
resolve
difficult
emotional
experiences
and
move
forward
in
our
lives.
There
are
cases
where,
besides
the
trauma
of
abandonment
and
lack
of
attachment,
there
has
been
no
early
stimulation,
mainly
during
the
first
year
of
life.
Sometimes
the
emotional
environment
is
so
poor
that
results
in
insufficient
attachment,
and
prevents
the
motivational
system
from
becoming
strong
enough
to
push
the
baby
to
find
and
produce
stimulation.
Other
times,
the
environment
has
been
so
negligent
that
has
not
provided
the
conditions
for
the
baby
to
adequately
cover
this
first
sensory
stimulation.
Whether
it
is
poor
emotional
environment
or
a
negligent
environment,
or
both
at
once,
the
result
is
that
we
find
children
who
have
not
had
the
opportunity
to
generate
enough
neural
connections
or
the
quality
required
for
the
reptilian
brain
to
mature.
This
phenomenon
hinders
the
brain
integration,
both
vertically
and
horizontally,
and
makes
the
processing
of
the
adaptive
information
system
difficult,
if
not
impossible.
Aiming
to
promote
and
foster
the
development
of
the
adaptive
information
system,
we
have
focused
on
a
dual
purpose:
rebuilding
attachment
and
ensuring
the
neurofunctional
reorganization
and
development
of
the
child
at
early
stages.
For
this
we
rely
on
both;
EMDR
processing,
as
well
as
sensory
integration
and
sensorimotor
therapies,
which
promote
the
integration
of
primitive
reflexes
and
the
child´s
development
at
early
years.
Given
the
baby's
phylogenetic
development
and
the
ideal
conditions
for
such
development
to
occur,
we
try
to
generate
the
same
conditions,
with
the
aim
to
facilitate
and
complete
part
of
the
child's
development
that,
so
far,
has
not
occurred
yet.
Therefore,
the
quality
of
attachment
is
what
will
define
the
self-‐regulation
capacity
and
the
child's
motivational
system.
And
in
this
sense,
the
neurofunctional
organization
and
sensory
integration
will
provide
the
child
with
the
necessary
resources
to
meet
the
challenges
of
both,
development
and
growth,
and
the
possibility
to
achieve
success
and
thus
to
obtain
the
perception
of
efficiency.
Both
aspects,
attachment
and
neurofunctional
organization,
are
interwoven
with
each
other
and
feed
the
adaptive
information
system.
Through
videos
and
clinical
material,
we
show
the
evolution
of
adopted
children
with
whom
we
have
already
intervened
from
this
dual
therapeutic
point
of
view;
generating
a
greater
vertical
and
horizontal
integration
and
a
better
attachment
consolidation.
Parents
will
play
a
key
role
in
this
intervention
and
we
prepare
them
for
it
through
both;
psycho-‐education
and
EMDR.
In
this
way,
they
can
become
proper
therapeutic
parents,
capable
to
parenthesize
their
own
children.
EMDR
está
basado
en
el
modelo
del
sistema
adaptativo
del
procesamiento
de
la
información.
El
ser
humano
posee
un
sistema
inherente
de
procesamiento
de
la
información
que
normalmente
procesa
los
elementos
complejos
de
una
experiencia
en
un
sistema
adaptativo.
En
otras
palabras,
tenemos
una
capacidad
innata
para
resolver
las
experiencias
emocionalmente
difíciles
y
seguir
adelante
con
nuestras
vidas.
Existen
casos
donde,
tras
el
trauma
de
abandono
y
la
falta
de
apego,
no
ha
existido
estimulación
temprana,
principalmente
durante
el
primer
año
de
vida.
A
menudo
el
ambiente
emocional
es
tan
pobre
que
da
como
resultado
un
apego
insuficiente,
e
impide
que
el
sistema
emocional
sea
lo
suficientemente
fuerte
para
conseguir
que
el
bebe
encuentre
y
produzca
estimulación.
En
otras
ocasiones,
el
ambiente
ha
sido
tan
negligente
que
no
proporciona
las
condiciones
adecuadas
para
que
el
bebe
cubra
su
primera
estimulación
sensorial.
Ya
sea
por
ambiente
emocional
pobre
o
un
ambiente
negligente,
o
bien
ambos,
el
resultado
es
que
encontramos
niños
que
no
tienen
la
oportunidad
de
generar
conexiones
neurales
suficientes
o
de
calidad
requeridas
por
el
cerebro
reptiliano
para
madurar.
Este
fenómeno
dificulta
la
integración
del
cerebro
vertical
y
horizontalmente
y
hace
que
el
sistema
de
procesamiento
de
la
información
sea
deficitario,
si
no
imposible.
Con
el
objetivo
de
promover
y
fomentar
el
desarrollo
del
sistema
adaptativo
del
procesamiento
de
la
información,
nos
hemos
centrado
en
un
propósito
dual:
Reconstruir
el
apego
y
asegurarnos
de
reorganizar
y
desarrollar
la
neurofuncionalidad
del
niño
en
las
etapas
tempranas
del
niño.
Para
ello
nos
apoyamos
en
el
procesamiento
del
EMDR,
así
como
en
las
terapias
de
integración
sensorial
y
sensoriomotoras,
que
fomentan
la
integración
de
los
reflejos
primitivos
y
el
desarrollo
del
niño
en
las
etapas
tempranas.
Dado
el
desarrollo
filogenético
del
niño
y
las
condiciones
ideales
para
que
dicho
desarrollo
ocurra,
intentamos
generar
las
mismas
condiciones,
con
el
objetivo
de
facilitar
y
completar
parte
del
desarrollo
del
niño
que
hasta
ahora,
no
ha
ocurrido
todavía.
Por
tanto,
la
calidad
del
apego
es
aquella
que
será
definida
por
la
capacidad
de
autorregulación
y
el
sistema
motivacional
del
niño.
Y
en
este
sentido,
la
organización
neurofuncional
y
la
integración
sensorial
promoverán
en
el
niño
los
recursos
necesarios
para
encontrarse
con
los
retos
de
desarrollo
y
crecimiento
y
la
posibilidad
de
conseguir
el
éxito
en
ambos,
además
de
obtener
la
percepción
de
eficiencia.
Ambos
aspectos,
apego
y
organización
neurofuncional,
están
entrelazados
y
alimentan
el
sistema
adaptativo
del
procesamiento
de
la
información.
A
través
videos
y
material
clínico,
mostramos
la
evolución
de
los
niños
adoptados
los
cuales
ya
han
sido
intervenidos
desde
esta
perspectiva
terapéutica
dual;
generando
una
gran
integración
vertical
y
horizontal
y
una
mejora
en
la
consolidación
del
apego.
Los
Keywords: Adoptives
Accuracy Verified: Yes
6. 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
7. Oh, D. H., & Park, Y. C. (2010, July). Bilateral eye movement: Changes brain default network functions in EMDR treatment. Poster presented at the 1st EMDR Asia Conference, Bali, Indonesia.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Introduction: The aim of this study was to clarify the effect of bilateral eye movement as one of the important therapeutic
components through EEG analysis. We examined differences between pre-bilateral eye movement and post-bilateral eye
movement of normal healthy volunteers in scalp recorded EEGs in two different ways. First, we used qEEG to examine
differences in specific band frequencies after bilateral eye movement. Secondly, we utilized low-resolution electromagnetic
tomography (LORETA) source imaging (Pascual-Marqui et al., 1994) to explore the underlying neural generators of changed
EEG activity. Methods:32 college students participated in the study. EEG was recorded continuously during the experiment.
All participants experienced 3 blocks: 1) pre-experiment, eye-closed EEG in resting state, 2) stimuli condition (either eye
movement or fixation) and 3) post-experiment, eye-closed EEG in resting state. 32-channel, eyes-closed EEG (30 artifactfree
s/subject) was analyzed (source localization using FFT approximation and LORETA). Results: We demonstrated different
functional connectivity patterns of the precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex (Brodmann area 23, 31) between bilateral eye
movement and eye fixation phase. Conclusion: These results provided evidence to support that the bilateral eye movements
in EMDR procedure gives rise to the changes of ‘brain default network’, accompanied by the alteration of regional brain
electrical activity.
Keywords: Eye Movements Poster
Accuracy Verified: Yes
8. Schulherr, S. (2003, September). The binge cycle meets EMDR: Bridging the gap. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Denver, CO.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
The "binge cycle" refers to the repetitive oscillation between binging and restrictive eating typical of binge eating disorder. Workshop participants will be enabled to identify and relate under-explored phases of the cycle.
They will learn how to use a simple information-gathering tool to quickly enter the client's symptomatic work, make apparent the "inner logic"
driving cyclic behaviors and, based on this, engage the client in the therapeutic work ahead. I will then demonstrate how this information can
be used to devise an EMDR-based treatment plan and integrate it with various existing models for EMDR with E.D. clients.
Keywords: Binging Binge Cycle Eating Disorders
Accuracy Verified: Yes
9. Shapiro, F. (1999). Brief therapy inside out: EMDR - Working with grief. Phoenix, AZ: Zeig, Tucker & Theisen Inc. Publishers.
Language: English
Format: Video
Abstract:
Sit in on therapy with the masters! This video is part of the innovative "Brief Therapy Inside Out" series - a unique series that puts you directly in the therapy room to watch as leading therapists demonstrate their approaches in 45-minute, unrehearsed clinical sessions with real clients (not actors).
EMDR founder Francine Shapiro has trained over 30,000 clinicians worldwide in her unique approach to the treatment of trauma. Known formally as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR has been used successfully in critical incident work with victims of such tragedies as the Oklahoma City bombing, with both single-incident rape and incest survivors, with survivors of chronic abuse, even with treatment-resistant Vietnam vets.
Here, Shapiro illustrates her eight-phase EMDR protocol with Angie, a recovering addict struggling with the sudden loss of her lover. While the exact neural mechanisms underlying EMDR are still not precisely understood, what is clear is that with skilled use of this potent reprocessing treatment, painful experiences that used to take months or years to treat have been resolved in as few as one to three 90-minute sessions. The videotape provides a singular introduction to this powerful approach as demonstrated by its extremely skilled founder.
The clinical session is preceded by an introductory interview with series hosts Drs. Jon Carlson and Diane Kjos in which Shapiro explains basic principles underlying her approach. The video closes with a Q&A segment in which key interactions from the eight-phase treatment protocol are replayed and discussed. 95 minutes.
Keywords: Grief
Accuracy Verified: Yes
10. Landin-Romero, R., Novo, P., Santed, A., Vicens, V., McKenna, P. J., Pomarol-Clotet, E., Salgado-Pineda, P., Shapiro, F., & Amann, B. (2012, June). Clinical remission and functional modulation of the default mode network in a subsyndromal, traumatized bipolar patient after EMDR psychotherapy. Poster presented at the annual meeting of EMDR Europe, Madrid, Spain .
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract: Purpose of the study: Some patients with bipolar disorder do not show complete remission between episodes, but continue to exhibit subsyndromal mood symptoms [1]. One factor related may be comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which has been found to be present in 16% to 39% of patients with bipolar disorder [2]. We describe the first case of an unstable bipolar II patient with history of various traumas that received Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) psychotherapy and also underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) before and after the EMDR treatment to explore its effect on the brain’s neural networks.
Keywords: Bipolar Disorder
Accuracy Verified: Yes
11. Lindsay, J. (1999, June). A cognitive neural network – Levels of processing: Approach to understanding EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Las Vegas, NV.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Participants will: 1) have a basic understanding of the theory presented as it pertain to mental
modules/nodes; 2) have a basic understanding of
the levels of processlng portions of the theory (i.e., bottom-up and top-down processing, and sensory, perceptual, conceptual analyzers); and 3) be able to apply the theory to a practical explanation of how EMDR works.
Keywords: Neural Network
Accuracy Verified: Yes
12. Brewin, C. R. (2001, April). A cognitive neuroscience account of posttraumatic stress disorder and its treatment. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 39(4), 373-393. doi:10.1016/S0005-7967(00)00087-5.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Recent research in the areas of animal conditioning, the neural systems underlying emotion and memory,
and the effect of fear on these systems is reviewed. This evidence points to an important distinction between
hippocampally-dependent and non-hippocampally-dependent forms of memory that are differentially affected
by extreme stress. The cognitive science perspective is related to a recent model of posttraumatic stress
disorder, dual representation theory, that also posits separate memory systems underlying vivid reexperiencing
versus ordinary autobiographical memories of trauma. This view is compared with other accounts in
the literature of traumatic memory processes in PTSD, and the contrasting implications for therapy are
discussed. 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: Review Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
13. Barfoot, K. M., Casey, M. C., & Callaway, A. J. (2012, July). Combined EEG and eye-tracking in sports skills training and performance analysis. Presentation at the World Congress of Performance Analysis of Sport IX, University of Wooster.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
The use of mobile EEG brainwave monitoring and eye-tracking recorded synchronously
during the training of sports skills offers significant opportunities but creates challenges.
Opportunities:
¨ Measuring neurocognitive activity and visual focus in real time which can be used to
provide immediate feedback to the coach, in ‘real world’ settings, for optimising training
protocols for the individual athlete.
¨ Use of sound output (‘sonification’) in proportion to EEG regions of interest as a
neurofeedback mechanism for athlete self-training.
¨ Application of visualisation protocols and ‘EEG-driven’ PC games where game feedback
based on state of mind is used to optimise mental state prior to performance.
¨ Examining the relationship between eye movement and neuro activity (e.g. saccades and
gamma waves) and in athlete coaching interventions such as sports visual scanning
strategies, Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, focussed
relaxation, etc.
Challenges:
¨ The recording of EEG during gross motor behaviour is subject to non-brain artefacts in
the raw (time-domain) EEG, due to the much larger (than EEG) electrical voltages
arising from muscle and eye movements. Practical approaches and signal processing
(frequency domain spectrum) techniques to address these problems will be discussed.
¨ The synchronisation of data recorded on different types of equipment (e.g. EEG, eyetracker,
video, sound, EMG, etc.) with different ‘clocks’ and diverse data formats is
difficult – both in terms of time-stamping the original recordings across all the systems
and playing them back synchronously for subsequent performance analysis. Progress on
creating real-time data export methods which allow synchronous data recording and
playback will be reported.
Examples of studies carried out in archery, golf, motorsport, football and skiing will be
discussed, with a focus on archery where:
¨ Measurements were taken from intermediate, county level, near elite and elite archers.
¨ Archery was chosen to demonstrate the real-time and in-situ quantification of neural
activity compared with target-based measures of performance that archery provides, over a
range of time-spans and skills.
¨ Results demonstrate that there are significant and measurable changes in EEG patterns
during a shot with evidence suggesting that the patterns vary as a function of skill level,
but not simply as a function of score.
Significance of each of these studies for goal-directed learning and performance enhancement
are discussed.
Keywords: EEG Eye Tracking Performance Analysis Sports Skills
Accuracy Verified: Yes
14. Oppenheim, H.-J. (2005, November). De som der delen: EMDR bij de behandeling van een vrouw met DIS [The sum of its parts: EMDR to treat a woman with DIS]. Presentatie op het Eerste Congres van de Vereniging EMDR Nederland, Ede, Nederland.
Language: Dutch
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Er zijn, zover bekend, zeven artikelen verschenen over de toepassing van EMDR bij DIS. Young (1994) beschrijft de toepassing van EMDR gericht op de fobische symptomen bij DIS. Paulsen (1995) komt met een theoretisch model gebaseerd op neuronale netwerken voor de dissociatieve stoornissen. Volgens Paulsen zorgt EMDR voor de her-associatie van het gedisscocieerde materiaal. Zij maant echter tot behoedzaam gebruik van EMDR, zeker bij de ernstige dissociatieve stoornissen. Anderen maken melding dat, vaak aangepaste versies van, EMDR zinvol kan zijn als een beperkte toegevoegde techniek in de behandeling van DIS (Lazrove & Fine, 1996; Chemtob, Tolin, Van Der Kolk, & Pitnam, 2000; Twombly, 2000; Fine & Berkowitz, 2001). Gelinas (2003) gaat nog verder en stelt een behandeling voor waarin een gemodificeerde vorm van van EMDR wordt gecombineerd met een ‘fase georiënteerde trauma behandeling’.
In deze presentatie staat de behandeling van een 44 jarige, zeer ernstig getraumatiseerde vrouw met DIS centraal. Zij volgt sinds eind 1997 een cognitief-gedragstherapeutische therapie. In september 2004 is er gestart met EMDR. Mede aan de hand van videofragmenten wordt het half jaar durende verwerkingsproces verteld, van één van de vele trauma’s die de cliënte heeft meegemaakt. Te zien valt onder meer hoe met behulp van EMDR specifieke informatie van de diverse alters zodanig geïntegreerd wordt, dat volledige verwerking mogelijk blijkt te zijn. Er zal aandacht besteed worden aan de specifieke wijze waarop bij deze behandeling met EMDR moest worden omgegaan.
There are known to be seven articles about the use of EMDR in DIS. Young (1994) describes the application of EMDR focused on phobic symptoms in DIS. Paulsen (1995) with a theoretical model based on neural networks for the dissociative disorders. According to Paulsen EMDR allows for the re-association of the gedisscocieerde material. It urges, however, to cautious use of EMDR, especially in severe dissociative disorders. Others have reported that, often modified versions of, EMDR can be useful as a limited added technique in the treatment of CIS (Lazrove & Fine, 1996; Chemtob, Tolin, Van Der Kolk, & Pitnam, 2000, Twombly, 2000, Fine & Berkowitz, 2001). Gelinas (2003) goes further and proposes a treatment for which a modified form of EMDR is combined with a phase-oriented trauma treatment.
In this presentation, the treatment of a 44 year old woman with very severely traumatized central CIS. It follows since the end of 1997 a cognitive-behavioral therapy. In September 2004 has started with EMDR. Partly on the basis of video clips, the half-year process told by one of the many traumas that the client has experienced. Is to see how including using EMDR specific information from the various alters so integrated that complete processing proves impossible. Attention will be paid to the specific manner in which this treatment with EMDR should be handled.
Keywords: Dissociative Disorders
Accuracy Verified: Yes
15. Forgash, C. A. (2005, June). Deepening EMDR treatment effects across the trauma spectrum: Integrating EMDR and ego state work. Föreningen EMDR Sverige, EMDR Tidningen, 7(2), 6-14.
Language: English
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
The concepts, interventions, and techniques presented in this workshop are culled from theory and techniques of
working with the range of the dissociative disorders). They have proved to be an effective addition to the preparation
stage of the EMDR protocol. In other words, they can be used with clients who dissociate under certain conditions but
do not have a dissociative disorder
Most of the traumatized clients seen for EMDR treatment have a range of dissociative symptoms as well as
symptoms of PTSD. This combination of PTSD and a dissociative disorder is often labeled DDNOS. However, people
with a more complex variety of PTSD usually have experienced very early and enduring severe physical or sexual
abuse (generally perpetrated by a family member), atrocities, war, or severe environmental disruption such as
earthquakes. They are more accurately diagnosed with disorders of extreme stress (DESNOS). For these clients, the
dissociated neural networks, or dissociative fragmentation, cause serious problems in adult life.
The adaptive information processing system is on hold for these dissociated fragments or parts. They are easily
triggered by internal or external cues to which they can have extreme reactions, (flashbacks, amnesia, losing time and
place, and so forth.)
Our goal as therapists is to use EMDR to help clients (and their internal dissociated neural networks or parts) find
stability and resources to function adaptively in their present life, and then desensitize and reprocess the dissociated
trauma memories and the PTSD symptoms.
We aim to help our clients manage their symptoms. It is not our goal to eliminate dissociation, which has been a
major survival strategy, but to help the client utilize it with conscious control.
It is important to note that attachment issues are an aspect of development that are especially impacted by trauma.
The attachment styles of the family pre trauma may have already affected the client in negative ways, impacting the
client's resources and responses to trauma.
One way to look at this set of problems is to utilize two approaches in the preparation phase of EMDR. These
approaches combine the treatment of dissociative symptoms with ego state work and are an essential aspect of treating
these clients with EMDR. This work may extend the preparation phase considerably, but will add safety and structure
to the trauma processing experiences for these clients.
Keywords: Ego State Therapy
Accuracy Verified: Yes
16. Samara, Z., Elzingal, B. M., Slagter, H. A., & Nieuwenhuis, S. (2011, March). Do horizontal saccadic eye movements increase interhemispheric coherence? Investigation of a hypothesized neural mechanism underlying EMDR. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2(4), 1-9. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2011.00004.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Series of horizontal saccadic eye movements (EMs) are known to improve episodic memory retrieval in healthy adults and to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Several authors have proposed that EMs achieve these effects by increasing the functional connectivity of the two brain hemispheres, but direct evidence for this proposal is lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate whether memory enhancement following bilateral EMs is associated with increased interhemispheric coherence in the electroencephalogram (EEG). Fourteen healthy young adults were asked to freely recall lists of studied neutral and emotional words after a series of bilateral EMs and a control procedure. Baseline EEG activity was recorded before and after the EM and control procedures. Phase and amplitude coherence between bilaterally homologous brain areas were calculated for six frequency bands and electrode pairs across the entire scalp. Behavioral analyses showed that participants recalled more emotional (but not neutral) words following the EM procedure than following the control procedure. However, the EEG analyses indicated no evidence that the EMs altered participants’ interhemispheric coherence or that improvements in recall were correlated with such changes in coherence. These findings cast doubt on the interhemispheric interaction hypothesis, and therefore may have important implications for future research on the neurobiological mechanism underlying EMDR.
Keywords: Eye Movements EMs
Accuracy Verified: Yes
17. Laliotis, D. (2009, March). Dreaming the future: Part 1 & Part 2 - Creating new possibilities with EMDR. Presentation at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium, Washington, DC.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
EMDR is often used to help clients access and rewire neural pathways to integrate traumatic memories and relieve dissociation, hyperarousal, and numbing. But it can also help clients move toward a better future by mentally rehearsing aspects of more positive, fulfilling lives. In this workshop, we'll describe how to use EMDR to develop alternative neural pathways freeing clients from the fears and self-doubts that keep them from developing to their fullest potential. We'll review the brain circuitry involved in moving from an internal state of disconnection and helplessness to one of integration and empowerment. Then through lecture, discussion, and videotaped examples, you'll learn guidelines for using EMDR to help clients develop new internal maps, future scenarios, and a clear sense of how to get from their present state to their future self.
Accuracy Verified: Yes
18. Propper, R. E., Pierce, J., Geisler, M. W., Christman, S. D., & Bellorado, N. (2007, September). Effect of bilateral eye movements on frontal interhemispheric gamma EEG coherence: Implications for EMDR therapy. Journal of Nervous Mental Disorders, 195(9), 785-788. doi:10.1097/NMD.0b013e318142cf73.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
The use of bilateral eye movements (EMs) is an important component of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for PTSD. The neural mechanisms underlying EMDR remain unclear. However, prior behavioral work looking at the effects of bilateral EMs on the retrieval of episodic memories suggests that the EMs enhance interhemispheric interaction. The present study examined the effects of the EMs used in EMDR on interhemispheric electroencephalogram coherence. Relative to noneye-movement controls, engaging in bilateral EMs led to decreased interhemispheric gamma electroencephalogram coherence. Implications for future work on EMDR and episodic memory are discussed. [Author Abstract]
Keywords: Adults Americans Brain Imaging Bilateral Eye Movements College Students Empirical Study Neurophysiology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Quantitative Study
Accuracy Verified: Yes
19. 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
20. Fátima Panangeiro, M. F., Torres, A. F. S., Fernandez, R. M., & Trajano, S. R. (2012, Novembro). Eicácia do EMDR na prevenção e cura do transtorno de estresse pós-traumático em vítimas de terremoto [Efficacy of EMDR in the prevention and treatment of PTSD with victims of an earthquake]. In comunicações de pesquisa. Apresentação no II Congresso Brasileiro de EMDR, Brasília, Brasil.
Language: Portuguese
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Introdução: Sabemos que quando uma pessoa vivencia um incidente crítico, essa exposição tem impacto considerável sobre seu funcionamento global. Assim, para assegurar a recuperação dos militares brasileiros que estavam no Haiti, escolhemos a técnica EMDR criada pela Dra.Francine Shapiro, que encontra respaldo teórico em descobertas recentes no campo neuropsicológico para realizar as intervenções. Justificativa: O EMDR é uma técnica eficaz, que permite que o trauma armazenado na memória de curto prazo passe para a memória de longo prazo, uma vez que com os estímulos criam-se novas conexões neurais que trazem alívio, paz e aceitação. Atualmente existem mais de 20 estudos randomizados que apoiam sua eficácia. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da técnica EMDR na recuperação de vítimas de terremoto no Haiti, que apresentavam Transtorno Estresse Pós-Traumático e/ou Transtorno Estresse Agudo. Método: O estudo foi realizado com 14 militares sobreviventes do terremoto ocorrido no Haiti em janeiro de 2010, divididos em dois grupos: A (soterrados) e B (não soterrados). Foram utilizados para avaliação: entrevista inicial entrevista inicial e final, os testes IES- Escala de Impacto de Eventos e ISSL - Inventário de Sintomas de estresse de Lipp (antes e após a intervenção), EMDR, e reencontro (follow-up) seis meses após o último atendimento. Resultados: De acordo com os resultados obtidos no IES, os sujeitos que tinham o nível de estresse entre grave, moderado e leve, passaram após a intervenção para o nível leve e recomendado. Em relação aos sintomas físicos e emocionais (flashbacks, insônia, pesadelos, agressividade, instabilidade de humor e aumento no consumo de álcool), os sujeitos não apresentavam mais a queixa ao término das intervenções. Conclusões: Com base nos resultados apresentados podemos afirmar que o EMDR é uma técnica eficaz para resolução do transtorno estresse pós-traumático, assim como na sua prevenção, em vítimas de terremoto.
Introduction: We know that when a person experiences a critical incident, such exposure has considerable impact on their overall functioning. Thus, to ensure the recovery of the Brazilian military who were in Haiti, we choose the EMDR technique created by Dra.Francine Shapiro, who finds theoretical support in recent discoveries in the field to perform neuropsychological interventions. Rationale: The EMDR is an effective technique that allows the trauma stored in short-term memory to pass the long-term memory, since with the stimuli it creates new neural connections that bring relief, peace and acceptance. Currently there are more than 20 randomized trials that support its effectiveness. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of EMDR technique in the recovery of victims of the earthquake in Haiti, which had Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and / or Acute Stress Disorder. Method: The study was conducted with 14 military survivors of the earthquake in Haiti in January 2010, divided into two groups: A (buried) and B (not buried). All patients were evaluated: initial initial interview and final interview, tests IES-Impact of Events Scale and ISSL - Symptom Inventory stress Lipp (before and after the intervention), EMDR, and reunion (follow-up) six months after the last treatment. Results: According to the results of the IES, the subjects who had the stress level between severe, moderate and mild, passed after the intervention to the level recommended lightweight. Regarding the physical and emotional symptoms (flashbacks, insomnia, nightmares, aggression, mood instability and increased consumption of alcohol), subjects no longer had the complaint at the end of the interventions. Conclusions: Based on the presented results we can state that EMDR is an effective technique for resolution of post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as its prevention, earthquake victims.
Keywords: Acute Stress Disorder Brazil Earthquake Haiti Military Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Prevention PTSD Treatment Victims
Accuracy Verified: Yes
21. Roques, J. (2008, Mai). EMDR - Une révolution et un changement de paradigme thérapeutiques [EMDR – A therapeutic revolution and paradigm shift]. Présentation à la Conférence EMDR Canada, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
Language: French
Format: Conference
Abstract:
La présentation comporte trois volets. Le premier volet présente le fondement neurologique de l’EMDR qui est centré sur les réseaux neuronaux de la mémoire - ce qui permet une compréhension nouvelle des phénomènes dissociatifs et qui fait ressortir le potentiel du traitement en EMDR. Le deuxième volet aborde les applications de ce cadre théorique à l’ensemble des manifestations pathologiques : traumatismes simples et
complexes, intoxications psychiques, épisodes psychotiques brefs et même certains cas de début de schizophrénie. Le troisième volet démontre à quel point l’EMDR bouleverse notre compréhension de la pathologie et de son traitement et de ce fait, constitue un véritable changement de paradigme thérapeutique. Cette compréhension nouvelle des phénomènes neuropsychologiques sous-jacents, telle que soulevée par l’EMDR, permet de distinguer ce qui est utile de ce qui ne l’est pas dans la plupart des psychothérapies.
This opening workshop will focus on three axes :
1) The neurological basis of EMDR that focuses on the memory’s neural networks – which in turn allow a fresh understanding of dissociative phenomena and shows the potential of EMDR treatment.
2) The application of this theoretical understanding to the various expressions of psychopathology: simple versus complex PTSD – psychic poisoning – brief psychotic episodes- even certain cases of early schizophrenia.
3) As a conclusion, how EMDR shook up our understanding of pathology and its treatment, and how it provided the impetus toward a genuine paradigm shift. This new understanding of the underlying psychoneurologic phenomena brought on by EMDR helps us to determine what may be useful or not in the various psychotherapies.
Keywords: Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Complex PTSD C-PTSD Dissociation
Accuracy Verified: Yes
22. Shapiro, F., & Laliotis, D. (2011, June). EMDR and the adaptive information processing model: Integrative treatment and case conceptualization. Clinical Social Work Journal, 39(2), 191-200. doi:10.1007/s10615-010-0300-7.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
EMDR is a comprehensive psychotherapy approach that is compatible with all contemporary theoretical orientations. Internationally recognized as a frontline trauma treatment, it is also applicable to a broad range of clinical issues. As a distinct form of psychotherapy, the treatment emphasis is placed on directly processing the neurophysiologically stored memories of events that set the foundation for pathology and health. The adaptive information processing model that governs EMDR practice invites the therapist to address the overall clinical picture that includes the past experiences that contribute to a client’s current difficulties, the present events that trigger maladaptive responses, and to develop more adaptive neural networks of memory in order to enhance positive responses in the future. The clinical application of EMDR is elaborated through a description of the eight phases of treatment with a case example that illustrates the convergences with psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic practice.
Keywords: Adaptive Information Processing AIP Integrative Treatment Memory Networks
Accuracy Verified: Yes
23. Terreri, L. (2005). EMDR e crisi d'astinenza [EMDR and withdrawal symptoms]. Bollettino per le Farmacodipendenze e l'Alcolismo del Ministero della Salute, 28(3/4), 25.
Language: Italian
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
L’EMDR (acronimo di Eye Movement Desensitization
and Reprocessing) è un metodo clinico ben strutturato
che può integrare i programmi terapeutici aumentandone
l’efficacia. Francine Shapiro ha scoperto che alcuni tipi
di stimolazione esterna possono aiutare molto efficacemente
una persona a superare un evento traumatico o
emotivamente disturbante. Il metodo utilizza principalmente
i movimenti oculari prodotti in un paziente invitandolo
a seguire il movimento della mano del terapeuta
(ma anche altre forme di stimolazione destro/sinistra come,
ad esempio, il tapping sulle mani). L’EMDR si basa
sull’ipotesi che l’evento traumatico “congeli” l’informazione
nella sua forma ansiogena originale, nello stesso
modo in cui è stato vissuto. L’informazione bloccata,
“congelata” nelle reti neurali, continua a provocare vari
disturbi psicologici. Pensare ad un evento traumatico
mentre contemporaneamente il paziente esegue determinati
movimenti oculari, invece, genera l’effetto di riprendere
o accelerare l’elaborazione dell’informazione. L’EMDR
provoca una migliore comunicazione tra gli emisferi
cerebrali ristabilendo l’equilibrio eccitatorio/inibitorio e
permette il raggiungimento di una risoluzione adattiva,
integrata in uno schema cognitivo ed emotivo positivo,
dell’esperienza del paziente. Il metodo, quindi, permette
una desensibilizzazione rapida dei ricordi traumatici e
una ristrutturazione cognitiva che porta a una riduzione
significativa dei sintomi del paziente.
EMDR (which stands for Eye Movement desensitization
and Reprocessing) is a well-structured clinical method
that can integrate treatment programs increasing
effectiveness. Francine Shapiro discovered that certain
of external stimulation can help most effectively
a person to overcome a traumatic event or
emotionally disturbing. The method mainly uses
eye movements produced in a patient requesting
to follow the movement of the hand therapist
(But also other forms of stimulation right / left as,
For example, tapping on your hands). EMDR is based
on the assumption that the traumatic event "freeze" information
anxiety in its original form, the same
way it was lived. Information blocked
"Frozen" in neural networks, continues to cause various
psychological disorders. Think of a traumatic event
simultaneously while the patient performs certain
eye movements, however, creates the effect of return
or accelerate the processing. EMDR
leads to better communication between the hemispheres
restoring brain balance excitatory / inhibitory and
allows the achievement of adaptive resolution,
embedded in a positive emotional and cognitive schema,
experience of the patient. The method, therefore, allows
a rapid desensitization of traumatic memories and
a cognitive restructuring that leads to a reduction
significant symptoms of the patient.
Keywords: Withdrawal Symptoms
Accuracy Verified: Yes
24. Dworkin, M. (2003, September). EMDR from the heart: A relational view of healing traumatic memories. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Denver, CO.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Many memories, explicit and implicit, and their concomitant sensations, are stimulated intersubjectively, spontaneously, and continuously, forming a multiplicity of feedback loops from clinician to client. This workshop
1s designed to raise the awareness of the clinician's witting and unwitting
participation in these processes. Transferential remarks may become sources of potential targeting, which may spontaneously bring the client back to old unfinished material. Somatosensory countertransferential
reactions may serve as sources of rich data to identify and work out blocks at a moment that a session seems to stall. The Relational Interweave, a relatively new intersubjective strategy, takes reactions of
clinician and client into account and opens opportuntities for new and
more powerful links to positive neural networks enhancing the work.
This workshop will teach rapid methods of identifying and sequencing
and intervening in these intersubjective processes.
Keywords: Relational Interweave Relational Strategies
Accuracy Verified: Yes
25. Gambuzza, C. A. (2010, June). EMDR in complex trauma of perinatal disorder and abuse. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany .
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This paper reports a case of PN-PTSD (Perinatal Disorder),
this being a disorder that is not frequently diagnoses and
not classified in DSM-IV, where a technical variation of floatback,
i. e., floatback-floatforward on timeline successfully overcame the posttraumatic amnesia, optimized access to the dissociated parts
of the Self, and integrated the Internal Family System with EMDR
and Ego State Therapy.
The sixteen year old patient, S, sniffed heron and practised self mutilation.
After two years' therapy the family secret was revealed in a
dream and led us towards the abuse. I adopted the theoretical
reference models on dissociation reported by M. Steinberg, B. A.
van der Kolk, 0. van der Hart, and C. McFarlane's operative
EMDR model and Ego State Therapy.
The aim of the therapy was to rebuild integrity of the Self and to
foster individualization- separation processes. The main goal was
create a sense of loyalty during therapy that would allow S to be
able to control in transitions in her dissociated mental states. Negotiation
between the ego states were created so that S could face
the states of terror and anxiety and gradually become integrated.
Alter had different names and distinctively different preferences
and personality traits, at times those alter took complete executive
control of the body and of the self. Initially the alter has
names outside the Self, then during the course of therapy their
names began with '5'. The dissociated alters have become targets
far EMDR.
The story of S, revolves round two traumas: PN-PTSD and
abuse.
Perinatal trauma and uterine perception of her mother's depressive
emotional states triggered difficulties in the child latching on
to the mother's breast, and the lack of mirroring and affective
syntonization caused the failure of internalization processes that
lead to identity.
5 was aware of the trauma of abandonment, but not of the trauma
of abuse that she defined as 'a deep impenetrable hole'. In order
to address the life-threatening trauma. S used an invasive ego-dystonic
coping mechanism: dissociation of the object and the Self.
By placing the abuse in an alter, S could still feel attached to her
family members that abused her, actively or passively using silence.
While the DES scale did not provide significant dissociation
results, the SCID-LIST furnished high values.
The self-mutilation practised by S may represent her hate of her
body that did not rebel to the abuse it was subjected to, or, as she
said it may represent "a way to punish herself for the guilt
of existing or to inflict upon herself physical pain to conceal the
anxiety of death".
EMDR was a challenge; it reached the preverbal states of the
arena of the primary process, it bound with emotions and led her
to symbolization, t resolved the traumatic matter that was frozen
In the neural networks and determined Self- integration. The Ego
States Therapy was a useful tool.
Keywords: Perinatal Disorder
Accuracy Verified: Yes
26. Paulsen, S. L. (2004, September). EMDR master series - II: Ego state therapy and EMDR: Activating, modifying and containing dissociated neural networks. Invited master series lecture at the annual meeting the EMDR International Association, Montreal, Quebec Canada.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Chronic childhood trauma may lead to chronic dissociation which in turn produces a highly conflicted self-structure. Since conflicted self systems may not process smoothly in EMDR, it behooves practitioners to assess for degree of dissociation and other “red flag” indicators prior to EMDR. To work with clients with conflicted selves, the practitioner needs a means to access disowned parts of self. Although Ego State Therapy (EST) is based upon psychoanalytic theory, it is not slow as psychoanalytic treatment is. EST is a way to rapidly access internal structures, mediate conflicts, navigate around defenses and mobilize resources. Therefore EST is ideal as either: 1) a cognitive interweave in EMDR looping; or 2) as part of a preparation for clients in the high end of the dissociative continuum (the ACT-AS-IF approach). This workshop will illustrate case formulation and EMDR preparation and processing using the concepts above.
Keywords: Ego State Therapy Master Series
Accuracy Verified: Yes
27. 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
28. Hase, M. (2010, June). EMDR to treat substance abuse and addiction. Preconference presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
The comorbidity of PTSD and substance abuse provides sufficient reason for treating patients, who are addicted, with EMDR while focusing on the PTSD diagnosis. However, there are several pathways leading to addiction, and PTSD is only one of them. Thirty years of addiction research have provided sufficient evidence for the crucial role of memory in drug dependency.
The Addiction Memory (AM) serves as a useful concept for "obsessive-compulsive craving" to be seen in drug addicted patients. The concept of an AM, and its importance in relapse occurrence and maintenance of learned addictive behaviour, has gained growing acceptance in the field of addiction research and treatment. The AM is interpreted as an individual-acquired memory following drug consumption in some individuals. The addiction memory is based on normal memory systems and systems of central nervous information processing. This neurobiological-based, imprinted, addictive behaviour seems to resist change under normal circumstances. The implicit nature of the addiction memory seems to qualify it as a target for EMDR treatment.
In a pilot-study group, 34 patients with chronic alcohol dependency in in-patient treatment for detoxification were randomly assigned to one of two treatment conditions: treatment as usual (TAU) or TAU+EMDR. In the TAU+EMDR group, patients received two sessions of EMDR focussing on memories of intense craving or relapse in order to activate and reprocess the addiction memory. The craving for alcohol was measured by the Obsessive-Compulsive-Drinking-Scale (OCDS) pre, post, and 1 month after treatment. The TAU+EMDR group showed a significant reduction in craving post-treatment and 1 month after treatment whereas TAU did not. The TAU+EMDR group showed lower relapse rates at the six-month follow-up. The results indicate that EMDR might be a useful approach for the treatment of addiction memory and associated symptoms of craving (Hase et al. 2008). Anecdotal reports show results with opiate and stimulant addicted patients.
This Workshop will address the EMDR treatment of comorbid PTSD and focuses on the application of EMDR as an adjunct in addiction treatment. Targets for a comprehensive EMDR treatment plan will be explained. A video demonstration, self-experience and discussion of cases shall contribute to learning.
REFERENCES
Boening, J. A. (2001). Neurobiology of an addiction memory. J Neural Transm 108(6): 755-65.
Hase, M., Schallmayer, S. and Sack, M (2008). "EMDR reprocessing of the addiction memory: Pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 1-month follow-up" J EMDR 2 (3), 170-179.
Keywords: Addiction Memory Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Substance Abuse TAU Treatment As Usual
Accuracy Verified: Yes
29. Shapiro, F. (1994, Summer). EMDR: In the eye of a paradigm shift. the Behavior Therapist, 17(7), 153-156.
Language: English
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
EMDR is presented by its founder [Shapiro] as a method for allowing long delayed learning to take place through as yet unknown neural mechanisms which are triggered by the repetitive eye movements of the procedure. In Stekete and Goldstein's appraisal of research examining EMDR's effectiveness we begin to see the contours of an empirical response to some of the earlier miraculous and enigmatic clinical case reports using this procedure. [Adapted from Introduction]
Keywords: Professional Criticism Reply Psychophysiology Treatment Effectiveness
Accuracy Verified: Yes
30. Bergmann, U. (2010). EMDR’s neurobiological mechanisms of action: A survey of 20 years of searching. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 4(1), 22-42. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.4.1.22.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Historically, mechanisms of action have often been difficult to ascertain. Thus far, the definitive discovery
of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)’s underlying mechanisms has been equally
elusive. We review the neurobiological studies of EMDR, as well as the theoretically driven speculative
models that have been posited to date. The speculative theoretically driven models are reviewed historically
to illustrate their growth in neurobiological complexity and specificity. Alternatively, the neurobiological
studies of EMDR are reviewed with regard to their object of investigation and categorized as follows:
findings before and after EMDR therapy (neuroimaging and psychophysiological studies) and findings
during the EMDR set (psychophysiological, neuroimaging, and qEEG studies).
Keywords: Neural Mechanisms Neurobiological Research Speculative Models
Accuracy Verified: Yes
31. Lanius, R. A. (2010, June). Emotion regulation and the self in complex PTSD. Keynote presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
The lecture will focus on the core problems in PTSD related to early life trauma, including emotion dysregulation and fragmentation of the self. The neural correlates of emotional awareness, social emotion processing and self-monitoring will be described. Implications for stage oriented trauma treatment and early intervention will be discussed.
Keywords: Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Complex PTSD C-PTSD Keynote Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
32. Ohtani, T., Matsuo, K., Kasai, K., Kato, T., & Kato, N. (2010, February). Erratum to “Hemodynamic responses of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in posttraumatic stress disorder”. Neuroscience Research, 66(2), 232. doi:10.1016/j.neures.2009.12.002.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Reports an error in "Hemodynamic responses of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in posttraumatic stress disorder" by Toshiyuki Ohta ni, Koji Matsuo, Kiyoto Kasai, Tadafumi Kato and Nobumasa Kato (Neuroscience Research, 2009[Dec], Vol 65[4], 375-383). The publisher regrets that the surname of Dr. Ohtani was incorrectly spelt in the original article. The corrected author listing is given in the erratum. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2009-20201-001). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective psychological intervention for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma-related recall (Recall) with eye movements (EMs) is thought to reduce distress. However, the neural mechanisms underlying this process remain unknown. Thirteen patients with PTSD received EMDR treatment over the course of 2–10 weeks. We assessed the change in hemoglobin concentration in the lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) during Recall with and without EM using multi-channel near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Clinical diagnosis and improvement were evaluated using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale. Recall with EM was associated with a significant decrease in oxygenated hemoglobin concentration ([oxy-Hb]) in the lateral PFC as compared with Recall without EM. Longitudinally, [oxy-Hb] during Recall significantly decreased and the amount of decrease was significantly correlated with clinical improvement when the post-treatment data was compared with that of the pre-treatment. Our results suggest that performing EM during Recall reduces the over-activity of the lateral PFC, which may be part of the biological basis for the efficacy of EMDR in PTSD. NIRS may be a useful tool for objective assessment of psychological intervention in PTSD. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: Hemodynamic Responses Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
33. Paulsen, S. L. (1995, March). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Its cautious use in the dissociative disorders. Dissociation: Progress in the Dissociative Disorders, 8(1), 32-44.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is described in terms of clinical phenomena, the need for appropriate training in EMDR, and the consistency of neural network theory with BASK theory of dissociation. EMDR treatment failures occur in dissociative disorder patients when EMDR is used without making diagnosis of the underlying dissociative condition and without modifying the EMDR procedure to accommodate it. Careful informed consent and the use of the dissociative table technique can allow EMDR to move successfully to completion in a dissociative patient. Certain "red flags" contraindicate the use of EMDR for some dissociative patients. A protocol for EMDR with dissociative patients is offered, for crisis intervention (rarely appropriate), abreactive trauma work, and integration/fusion. The safety and effectiveness of EMDR's use in the dissociative disorders requires adequate preparation and skillful trouble-shooting during the EMDR. [Author Abstract]
Keywords: Adults Crisis Intervention Dissociative Disorders Females Stressors Survivors Treatment Effectiveness
Accuracy Verified: Yes
34. Browning, C. (1999). Flotar hacia atrás y flotar hacia delante: Técnicas para ligar el pasado, Presente y futuro [Floatback and Float Forward: Techniques for the Tie Past, Present and Future]. Presentation at EMDRIA Latinoamericana.
Language: Spanish
Format: Conference
Abstract:
El protocolo estándar de EMDR requiere enfocar los orígenes de la perturbación, los gatillos del presente y crear un patrón de conductas adecuadas para el futuro (Shapiro). Algunos pacientes, sin embargo pueden tener dificultades para conectar su problema actual con acontecimientos del pasado. Así también, otros pacientes pueden tener dificultades para crear patrones positivos para el futuro, especialmente si ensayar conductas nuevas los pone ansiosos. Para estos problemas las técnicas de "Flotar hacia atrás" y "Flotar hacia delante" desarrolladas por William Zangwill Ph. D., entrenador del Instituto EMDR, son métodos efectivos para ligar el pasado, presente y futuro en un ámbito terapéutico y proveen al terapeuta de instrumentos para abordar eficientemente ambos temas.
LA TÉCNICA DE FLOTAR HACIA ATRÁS
Abordar recuerdos tempranos asociados con el material perturbador es fundamental para EMDR. Shapiro dice que ayudar al paciente a encontrar un recuerdo temprano "debe ser una de las primeras opciones que debe considerar al terapeuta..." (Shapiro, 1995). La Técnica de Flotar hacia atrás es un camino eficiente y poderoso para llegar a esta meta, permitiendo al terapeuta asistir al paciente a llevar a cabo sus propias asociaciones con acontecimientos del pasado. Su uso es muy apropiado cuando el terapeuta sospecha que una perturbación que el paciente experimenta en el presente, tiene sus raíces en experiencias del pasado; especialmente cuando preguntas como "Cuál es su recuerdo más temprano en relación a lo que se siente ahora? no ha tenido éxito en ayudar al paciente a conectar con eventos del pasado. También cuando un paciente presenta un tema o experiencia recurrente, la Técnica de Flotar hacia Atrás es ideal para ayudar al paciente a identificar un target para el reprocesamiento. Muchos pacientes se ponen en contacto con los problemas actuales con relativa facilidad. Por ejemplo, una paciente que se queja que se siente abandonada cuando su marido se va de viaje de negocios, probablemente pueda recordar sus problemas actuales con facilidad. Entonces el terapeuta puede aplicar la Técnica de Flotar hacia Atrás para ayudarle a la paciente a recordar un acontecimiento del pasado con rapidez y eficiencia.
Para usar la Técnica de Flotar hacia Atrás, arme el protocolo con el problema actual, utilizando los pasos que figuran en el Manual de Entrenamiento del Nivel I y del Nivel II (Shapiro, 1994) incluyendo la imagen, la cognición negativa (CN), la cognición positiva (CP), la validación de la cognición (VoC), emociones, Unidad Subjetiva de Perturbación (SUD) y sensación corporal. Sin embargo, no incide todavía el procesamiento (es decir, movimientos oculares u otra estimulación). En vez de eso, diga a su paciente: "Fíjese en la imagen de... y esas palabras (repita la imagen perturbadora del paciente y su cognición negativa), fíjese que emociones le vienen y donde las siente en el cuerpo. Ahora cierre los ojos y deje que su mente flote hacia atrás a un período anterior en su vida, no busque, simplemente deje que su mente flote a una época donde usted pensaba cosas similares... (repita las emociones que dijo el paciente) en ...(repita los lugares del cuerpo donde el paciente sintió las sensaciones). Cuando esté listo abra los ojos y dígame lo primero que le viene a la mente".
Utilice esta experiencia más temprana como target, completando todos los items del protocolo: imagen, CN, CP, VoC, emociones, SUD y ubicación de las sensaciones corporales y comience a procesar con movimientos oculares u otro estímulo bilateral. Una vez que se ha procesado este material, vuelva al target original del material actual. Muy a menudo se generaliza el trabajo realizado sobre el material más temprano y ya no hace falta procesar el material actual.
Es importante usar términos generales cuando se le dan al paciente las instrucciones de la Técnica de Flotar hacia Atrás, es decir, pedir un recuerdo temprano y no el más temprano. Hay varias razones que avalan esto. Primero, muchas veces es el peor recuerdo y no el primero que funciona como el mejor target para el reprocesamiento,. Además, usar términos generales es una ayuda para los pacientes más compulsivos y perfeccionistas que de otra manera estarían demasiado preocupados en no equivocarse y encontrar exactamente la primera asociación. Finalmente, la flexibilidad que permite la utilización de términos generales más que términos específicos aumenta la posibilidad de éxito del paciente de conectarse con el pasado que es la meta de esta técnica.
El rasgo esencial de la Técnica de Flotar hacia Atrás es usar las preguntas del protocolo para conectar los problemas del presente con eventos del pasado. Pasar las preguntas como fueron desarrolladas por Shapiro es un potente método para ayudar a los pacientes a sintonizar con todos los aspectos de su experiencia del problema. El material perturbador se vuelve más vívido y actual para el paciente y posibilita recordar experiencias similares. Se supone, como hipótesis, que al haber desarrollado el protocolo con todas las preguntas sobre el problema actual, estimula la red neuronal de asociaciones y posibilita casi sin esfuerzo el "flotar hacia atrás" a asociaciones tempranas.
Además, el vínculo paciente-terapeuta es realzado porque el terapeuta valida la experiencia del paciente (la perturbación actual) al empezar el trabajo desde el punto en el que se encuentra el paciente. Las asociaciones son del paciente, eliminando el tema de la resistencia a cualquier idea o interpretación introducida por el terapeuta. El paciente se da cuenta vivencialmente de la conexión del presente con el pasado usando la Técnica de Flotar hacia Atrás, pudiendo esquivar la evitación y otras defensas.
LA TÉCNICA DE FLOTAR HACIA DELANTE
Mientras que la Técnica de Flotar hacia Atrás posibilita muy a menudo que los pacientes vean y sientan la conexión entre el problema actual y los eventos pasados, la Técnica de Flotar hacia delante permite que el paciente identifique y reprocese la ansiedad anticipatoria y desarrolle patrones positivos para el futuro. Es un método que puede ser utilizado en cualquier momento del proceso terapéutico para solucionar bloqueos, renuencias y en algunos casos, resistencias o temas de beneficios secundarios o pérdidas. Es especialmente útil para trabajar con el miedo del paciente a hacer EMDR.
Para ponerlo en práctica, primero pida al paciente que imagine lo peor que le puede pasar si hace "X" (por ej. probar una nueva conducta, testear una nueva habilidad, empezar una experiencia nueva). ¿Qué es lo peor que le puede pasar si hace EMDR? Que es lo peor que le puede pasar si soluciona este problema? ¿Qué es lo peor que le puede pasar si le pone límites a su jefe respecto a la cantidad de trabajo que espera que usted haga? El paciente puede necesitar ayuda para identificar la peor escena. Algunas sugerencias incluyen el miedo a perder el control de sus emociones, el miedo a perder el control de sus funciones corporales como el control de esfínteres, miedo a tener un ataque de pánico, y no poder manejar su vida emocional entre las sesiones.
Una vez que el paciente ha identificado el incidente, pregunte por la peor parte de esa escena y utilícelo como el target de EMDR, armando el protocolo con las preguntas estándar, pero con una leve modificación: pregunte por la imagen que representa la peor parte del peor incidente, por ej. "Cuando usted ve una imagen de si mismo/a haciendo......, que es lo peor que puede pasar?"
Después siga con el resto de las preguntas estándar, es decir, CN, CP, VoC, emociones, SUD, y ubicación de la sensación corporal. Estimule el procesamiento del paciente con movimientos oculares u otro estímulo bilateral.
Si el desarrollo de la peor escena del paciente le provoca un miedo racional, puede que se tengan que tomar medidas prácticas para solucionar estas preocupaciones. Por ejemplo, usando la técnica de flotar hacia delante con un chico de 13 años que estaba en un hogar adoptivo transitorio, la peor escena evocada por él fue: "Me van a devolver al Hogar si esta adopción no resulta". Durante el procesamiento, el SUD se redujo de 8 a 3 con bastante rapidez pero de ahí no bajaba. El paciente comentó que no bajaba porque esta "peor escena" podría sucederle realmente y le había sucedido en el pasado. Paramos los movimientos oculares, charlamos un rato y elaboramos un plan para: a) una sesión con sus padres adoptivos para hablar sobre la permanencia de la adopción y b) una llamada en conferencia a su asesor legal para clarificar sus derechos y opciones. Volviendo al target después de esto, le fue posible reducir el SUD a 1 con unos pocos sets de movimientos oculares.
Al utilizar la Técnica de Flotar hacia delante para reprocesar la peor escena, el paciente tiene una oportunidad para resolver la ansiedad anticipatoria. Durante la instalación de la cognición positiva, el paciente está creando patrones positivos para acciones en el futuro. Una mujer cuyo hermano fue verbalmente abusivo con ella en la infancia y en la actualidad la intimidaba, armó una "peor escena" con: "Va a ser igualmente abusivo cuando lo vea la próxima vez". La paciente había hecho mucho EMDR, reprocesando incidentes de la infancia relacionados con el abuso verbal del hermano. Sin embargo, sin un referente positivo vivencial, seguía ansiosa cada vez que interactuaba con él. Pidiéndole que "flote hacia delante" y usando EMDR sobre una de las peores escenas, alivió su ansiedad respecto a una fiesta familiar que tenía pendiente. Instalando una CP de "Ahora estoy más fuerte" le permitió crear una imagen de si misma manejando a su hermano con humor y sintiéndose segura.
A aplicar las Técnicas de Flotar hacia Atrás y hacia Delante y ocuparse así del pasado, presente y futuro, el terapeuta de EMDR puede sanar mejor a su paciente. Es más, las Técnicas de Flotar hacia Atrás y hacia Delante están basadas en EMDR. Las dos incorporan las preguntas del protocolo standard y le dan al terapeuta y al paciente la oportunidad de manejarse más fluidamente con dicho protocolo.
EMDR standard protocol requires a focus of the origins of the disturbance, the triggers of this and create a pattern of behaviors appropriate to the future (Shapiro). Some patients, however, may have difficulty connecting the current problem with past events. Also, other patients may have difficulty creating positive patterns for the future, especially if you try new behaviors makes them anxious. For these problems the techniques of "float back" and "Float forward" developed by William Zangwill Ph.D., EMDR Institute trainer, are effective methods to link the past, present and future in a therapeutic area and provide the therapist tools to effectively address both issues.
THE ART OF FLOATING BACK
Addressing early memories associated with foreign material is essential to EMDR. Shapiro said that helping the patient to find early memory "must be one of the first options to consider when therapist ..." (Shapiro, 1995). Floating Technique back is a powerful and efficient way to reach this goal, allowing the therapist to assist the patient to carry out their own associations with past events. Its use is most appropriate when the clinician suspects that a disturbance that the patient is experiencing at present, is rooted in past experiences, especially when questions like "What is your earliest memory in relation to what you feel now? Not been successful in helping patients to connect with past events. Also when a patient has a recurrent theme or experience, the Backward Floating Technique is ideal for helping the patient to identify a target for reprocessing. Many patients come into contact with the current problems with relative ease. For example, a patient who complains that she feels abandoned when her husband goes on a business trip, you can probably recall their current problems with ease. Then the therapist can apply the technique Float Backwards to help the patient to remember a past event quickly and efficiently.
To use the technique to back float, arm the protocol to the current problem, using the steps listed in the Training Manual Level I and Level II (Shapiro, 1994) including the image, negative cognition (NC) positive cognition (PC), validation of cognition (VoC), emotions, Subjective Unit of Disturbance (SUD) and bodily sensation. However, it still affects the processing (ie, eye movements or other stimulation). Instead, tell your patient: "Look at the picture ... and those words (repetition of the disturbing image of the patient and negative cognition), note that emotions come from and where you sit on the body. Now close eyes and let your mind float back to an earlier period in your life, look no further, just let your mind float to a time when you thought things like ... (repeat the emotions that said the patient) .. . (repeat parts of the body where the patient felt the sensation). When you are ready open your eyes and tell me the first thing that comes to mind. "
Use this early experience as a target, completing all protocol items: image, CN, CP, VoC, emotions, SUD and location of bodily sensations and begin processing with eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. Once this material has been processed, return to the original target of the current material. Very often we generalize the work done on the earlier material and no longer have to render the current material.
It is important to use general terms when the patient is given instructions Technique Float Backwards, ie a memory request early and not earlier. There are several reasons that support this. First, it is often the worst memory and not the first that works as the best target for reprocessing. In addition, using general terms is an aid for compulsive and perfectionistic patients who otherwise would be too concerned with avoiding failure and find exactly the first association. Finally, the flexibility that allows the use of general rather than specific terms increases the likelihood of success of the patient to connect with the past that is the goal of this technique.
The essential feature of the technique is to use Float Backwards questions of protocol to connect the problems of the present with past events. Skip the questions and were developed by Shapiro is a powerful method to help patients to tune into all aspects of their experience of the problem. The foreign material becomes more vivid and present to the patient and possible recall similar experiences. It is assumed, arguendo, that having developed the protocol with all the questions about the current problem, the neural network encourages and facilitates partnerships almost effortlessly "float back" early associations.
In addition, the patient-therapist relationship is enhanced because the therapist validates the patient's experience (current disruption) to start work from the point where the patient is. Partnerships are the patient, eliminating the issue of resistance to any idea or interpretation introduced by the therapist. The patient realizes experientially connecting the present with the past by using the technique Float Backwards, can avoid the avoidance and other defenses.
THE ART OF FLOATING FORWARD
While technology enables Float Backwards often patients to see and feel the connection between the current problem and past events, the forward float technique allows the patient to identify and reprocess anticipatory anxiety and develop positive patterns the future. It is a method that can be used at any time of the therapeutic process to troubleshoot crashes, reluctance and in some cases, resistance or topics of ancillary benefits or losses. It is especially useful for working with the patient's fear to do EMDR.
To put this into practice, first ask the patient to imagine the worst that can happen if you "X" (eg. Try a new behavior, test a new skill, start a new experience.) What's the worst that can happen if you EMDR? That's the worst that can happen if you solve this problem? What's the worst that can happen if you put your head limits on the amount of work expected to do? The patient may need help to identify the worst scene. Some suggestions include fear of losing control of his emotions, fear of losing control of their bodily functions such as bowel and bladder control, fear of having a panic attack and can not manage their emotional life between sessions.
Once the patient has identified the incident, ask for the worst part of that scene and use it as the target of EMDR, setting up the protocol with the standard questions, but with a slight modification: ask for the image that represents the worst of worst incident, eg. "When you see a picture of him / herself by ......, it's the worst that can happen?"
Then follow with the rest of the standard questions, ie, CN, CP, VoC, emotions, SUD, and location of bodily sensation. Stimulate the processing of patients with eye movements or other bilateral stimulation.
If the development of the patient's worst scene provokes a rational fear, you may have to take practical steps to address these concerns. For example, using the technique of floating forward with a boy of 13 who was in a temporary foster home, the worst scene evoked for him was: "I will return home if this adoption is not." During processing, the LDS was reduced from 8 to 3 fairly quickly but it does not down. The patient said he did not go down because the "worst scene" could really happen and had happened in the past. Eye movements stopped, we chatted a while and developed a plan for: a) a meeting with her adoptive parents to discuss the permanence of the adoption and b) a conference call to his legal adviser to clarify your rights and options. Returning to the target after that, it was possible to reduce the LDS-1 with a few sets of eye movements.
Using Floating Technique forward to reprocess the worst scenario, the patient has an opportunity to resolve the anticipatory anxiety. During the installation of the positive cognition, the patient is creating positive patterns for future action. A woman whose brother was verbally abusive to her children and now intimidated, put together a "worst stage" with: "It will be equally unfair when I see him next time." The patient had done much EMDR reprocessing childhood incidents related to verbal abuse of his brother. However, without a positive reference experiential, still anxious every time I interacted with him. Asking him to "float forward" and using EMDR on one of the worst scenes, relieved her anxiety about a family party that was pending. Installing a CP of "I'm stronger now allowed him to create an image of herself driving her brother with humor and feeling safe.
To apply the techniques to float back and forth and deal well past, present and future, the EMDR therapist can heal your patient better. Moreover, techniques to float back and forth are based on EMDR. Both incorporate the standard protocol questions and give the therapist and the patient the opportunity to be managed more smoothly with this protocol.
Keywords: Floatback Technique Float Foward Technique
Accuracy Verified: Yes
35. Pagani, M. (2013, June). Functional and structural neuroimaging and EEG monitoring related to EMDR and CBT treatments for PTSD. Presentation at the 13th annual conference for the European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ESTSS), Bologna, Italy.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
In the recent past several neuroimaging studies aimed at evaluating the neural correlates of PTSD-related psychotherapies revealing their neurobiological effects on brain function. Functional studies by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and electroencephalography (EEG) detected changes in cerebral blood flow and neuronal activation patterns, identifying the brain areas implicated in the various components of emotional processing and/or affected by the disorder. Investigations by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have also revealed PTSD-related structural changes.
The first part of the workshop will review the neuroimaging methodologies and findings in PTSD treatment-related research with an extensive review of previous literature on the neurobiological effects of the various psychotherapies. The second part will deal with the description and implementation in research and clinic of neuropsychological testing with brief comments and discussion about their use in recent studies published by our group. In the third part the EEG monitoring of a complete set of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapies in 30 patients suffering of major trauma as compared to 20 healthy controls will be presented. These findings will also be compared to the neurobiological effects of trauma-focussed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in a second group of psychologically traumatized clients. The results are the first report ever on the neurobiological changes occurring before, during and after PTSD-related psychotherapies shedding light on the neuronal processes underlying their clinical efficacy.
The description and the discussion about the contents of the workshop will provide the audience (1) the necessary information to understand the methodological principles behind neuroimaging techniques (SPECT, EEG and MRI) and their possible applications in research and clinic; (2) the up-dated critical knowledge of the published papers in the field of PTSD-related psychotherapies functional and anatomical studies; (3) the basic research principles and examples to be motivated to start, take part and/or collaborate to functional studies in order to better understand the neural basis of psychotherapeutic techniques. The presented material will represent the state-of-the-art of the current neuroscience PTSD-related research and of the neuroimaging methodologies available at the moment.
Keywords: CBT Cognitive Behavior Therapy EEG Monitoring Neuroimaging Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
36. Pagani, M. (2010, June). Gray matter density is associated with EMDR outcome in PTSD patients. In Research. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
There is converging evidence of gray matter (GM) structural alterations in different limbic structures in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder patients. Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is currently used to treat PTSD but its neurobiological implications are still unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate GM density in PTSD relation to trauma load, and to assess the GM differences between responders (R) and non-responders (NR) to EMDR therapy.
Structured clinical interviews for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders were carried out before and after EMDR treatment. Those who no longer fulfilled the DSM-IV criteria for PTSD were classified as R and those who still met the diagnostic criteria of PTSD after treatment were classified as NR. Two scales 0f self-related Trauma Antecedent Questionnaire (‘trauma and neglect’ TAQ-, and ‘resilience factors’ TAQ+), were administered to assess lifelong trauma load and resilience. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans 10 R and of 5 NR were compared before therapy by means of an optimized Voxel-Based Morphometry (VBM) analysis as implemented in SPM. For group analysis, a threshold of p<0.05 corrected for multiple comparisons at cluster level and an uncorrected threshold of p <0.001 at voxel-level were used.
NR subjects showed no significant differences nor in TAQ- scores neither in TAQ+ as compared to R(t=0.140, p+0.891). The contract R>NR exhibited a significant GM lower density in NR as compared to R in three different cluster: the first bilaterally located over posterior cingulate (Brodmann Areas, Bas 23 and 31); the second centered over the left precentral (BA 4), middle and medial frontal gyri (BA 6); the third including anterior insula (BA 13), and the complex anterior parahippocampal gyrus/amygdala, over the right hemisphere.
To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating GM alterations with a VBM approach in a sample of PTSD patients respond and non responding to EMDR therapy. Posterior cingulate, parahippocampal and insular lower GM concentrations have been found to relate to responsiveness to EMDR therapy suggesting a high vulnerability of these structures to the effects of stress and trauma. These regions are well known to be implicated in processes such as: integration, encoding and retrieval of autobiographical and episodic memories; emotional processing, interoceptive awareness and sefl-referential conscious experience. Thus, our study supports lower GM densities in limbic and paralimbic cortices as a potential structural basis for memory and dissociative dysfunction in PTSD. Using such methodological approach can contribute to better understand the neurostructural basis for traumatic responses and their treatment.
The goals for the audience are: 1. To understand the methodological research principles; 2. To be updated on neurobiological research in EMDR; 3. to be informed on the neural basis of EMDR.
Keywords: Gray Matter Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Research Symposium
Accuracy Verified: Yes
37. Ohtani, T., Matsuo, K., Kasai, K., Kato, T., & Kato, N. (2009, December). Hemodynamic responses of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in posttraumatic stress disorder. Neuroscience Research, 65(4), 375-383. doi:10.1016/j.neures.2009.08.014.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective
psychological intervention for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Trauma-related recall (Recall) with eye movements (EMs) is thought to reduce
distress. However, the neural mechanisms underlying this process remain
unknown. Thirteen patients with PTSD received EMDR treatment over the course
of 2 to 10 weeks. We assessed the change in hemoglobin concentration in the
lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) during Recall with and without EM using
multi-channel near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Clinical diagnosis and
improvement were evaluated using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale.
Recall with EM was associated with a significant decrease in oxygenated
hemoglobin concentration ([oxy-Hb]) in the lateral PFC as compared with
Recall without EM. Longitudinally, [oxy-Hb] during Recall significantly
decreased and the amount of decrease was significantly correlated with
clinical improvement when the post-treatment data was compared with that of
the pre-treatment. Our results suggest that performing EM during Recall
reduces the over-activity of the lateral PFC, which may be part of the
biological basis for the efficacy of EMDR in PTSD. NIRS may be a useful tool
for objective assessment of psychological intervention in PTSD.
Keywords: Hemodynamic Responses Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
38. Flumeri, F., Salmaso, D., & Pagani, M. (2008, 26-28 Settembre). Impatto dell'EMDR sulle fuzioni e sulla neurobiologia cerebrali [Impact on EMDR and neurobiological brain functions]. In T. Farma (Chair), Simposio, Il modello psicotraumatologico: Un ponte tra indicatori neurobiologici e Psicoterapia. VII Congresso SPR Italia, Modena.
Language: Italian
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Introduzione:negli ultimi anni il numero di studi condotti nell’ambito dei disturbi causati da eventi traumatici ha subito una forte accelerazione rilevando l’esistenza di alterazioni fisiologiche e morfologiche in specifiche aree cerebrali associate sia alla risposta emotiva al trauma che alla insorgenza dei sintomi della sindrome da stress post-traumatico (PTSD).
L’impiego delle tecniche di neuroimmagine ha consentito di fare luce sui correlati neurali della psicoterapia, rivelando i suoi effetti neurobiologici sulla funzione cerebrale. Nell’ambito dei diversi approcci psicoterapeutici, l’EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy) è emerso come promettente risorsa per il trattamento del trauma e di altri disturbi d’ansia, sebbene ancora non sia stata completamente chiarita la sua modalità di azione sui circuiti neurali. Molte ricerche sono state effettuate per valutare l’efficacia dell’EMDR, ma solo un numero esiguo di esse ha indagato il substrato neurobiologico di questa psicoterapia.
Le metodiche di neuroimmagini utilizzate finora per studi sull’EMDR sono la Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) e la Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). La prima raccoglie dati sull’attivita’ cellulare cerebrale mentre la seconda riporta dati anatomici strutturali.
Gli studi funzionali condotti con SPECT consentono di identificare le variazioni del metabolismo e del flusso ematico cerebrale, suggerendo un ruolo specifico per ciascuna area cerebrale coinvolta nel complesso meccanismo che sottende il processamento delle emozioni; la MRI consente invece di rilevare la presenza di variazioni morfologiche e volumetriche di specifiche strutture cerebrali. Negli ultimi anni, studi SPECT e MRI, volti ad esaminare gli effetti dell’EMDR sulla fisiopatologia cerebrale in pazienti affetti da disturbi d’ansia, hanno riscontrato sostanziali variazioni del flusso ematico ed alterazioni strutturali di alcune regioni cerebrali in seguito a terapia.
L’efficacia dell’EMDR nel trattamento del PTSD è stata confermata da uno studio SPECT su sei soggetti ( Lansing et al.) (1) che ha evidenziato dopo terapia una diminuzione del flusso ematico nel lobo occipitale bilateralmente e nel lobo parietale sinistro e un aumento di flusso nel giro frontale inferiore sinistro. Sempre utilizzando la SPECT Oh e Choi (2) hanno riportato una significativa modificazione del flusso cerebrale in seguito ad EMDR, prevalentemente riscontrabile nell’area limbica e nella corteccia prefrontale. Un recente studio con utilizzo di MRI (3) ha inoltre messo in evidenza un aumento di volume dell’ippocampo in seguito a trattamento con EMDR, aumento invece non riportato in un lavoro di Lindauer et al. su 9 soggetti con PTSD, nonostante il successo clinico della psicoterapia eclettica eseguita (4).
Obiettivi: il nostro gruppo ha studiato gli effetti a breve e lungo termine dell’EMDR (5, 6) dimostrando la sua efficacia nel trattamento di soggetti traumatizzati sul lavoro, e una stabilità del miglioramento clinico ottenuto in risposta alla terapia, ancora presente a distanza di tre anni. Nell’ambito dello stesso progetto sono state anche studiate le variazioni del flusso ematico cerebrale e della volumetria di alcune strutture cerebrali in relazione alla terapia con EMDR. Un primo studio SPECT ha analizzato la variazione della distribuzione di flusso in 11 soggetti guariti clinicamente da PTSD in seguito a EMDR messi a confronto con 5 soggetti nei quali la terapia non ha avuto effetto (7). Risultati: è stato evidenziato nei soggetti con remissione sintomatologica significative differenze di flusso in 4 aree corticali, alla disfunzione delle quali sono ascrivibili alcuni sintomi presenti in corso di PTSD. Diminuzioni di flusso post-terapia sono state registrate nell’ippocampo, nella corteccia parieto-occipitale e nella corteccia visiva primaria. L’ippocampo e’ sede della memoria a breve termine; la corteccia parieto-occipitale processa il riconoscimento di volti, dei corpi e delle parole; la corteccia visiva primaria custodisce la memoria visiva degli eventi. La mancata inibizione e/o l’iperattivita’ di queste regioni nel PTSD sono responsabili della rivisitazione patologica dell’evento traumatico e della presenza di flashback ed immagini allucinatorie. Inoltre la corteccia frontale dorsolaterale ha dimostrato un aumento di flusso nei soggetti che hanno risposto positivamente alla terapia. Questa regione chiave oltre ad essere deputata ad inibire la risposta patologica a stimoli che ricordano l’evento traumatico e’ essenziale per i processi di attenzione e di autostima, diminuiti in corso di PTSD e recuperati in seguito alla remissione della malattia. In ulteriori studi che combinano indagini funzionali e strutturali utilizzando SPECT e MRI abbiamo messo in evidenza il valore predittivo delle dimensioni dell’ippocampo riguardo all’efficacia della terapia con EMDR (Pagani et al. sottomesso).
Conclusioni: gli effetti della terapia con EMDR sono risultati, unitamente ad un consistente miglioramento della sintomatologia e ad una riduzione della iperreattività a stimoli di carattere emotivo, in una normalizzazione funzionale di alcune aree specifiche e in un aumento del volume ippocampale probabilmente ascrivibile a neo-neurogenesi. Questi risultati sono in linea con la pregressa letteratura e con le attuali conoscenze sul PTSD e suggeriscono basi neurobiologiche dell’effetto terapeutico dell’EMDR confermandone l’impatto funzionale su strutture cerebrali coinvolte in patologie ansiogene.
Bibliografia:
1. Lansing et al. (2005). J Neuropsych Clin Neurosci;17(4):526-532.
2. Ho DH and Choi J. (2007). J EMDR Pract Res;1(1):24-30.
3. Bossini et al. (2007). J Neuropsych Clin Neurosci; 19(4):475-476.
4. Lindauer et al. (2005). Psychol Med ; 35 :1-11.
5. Hogberg et al. (2007). Nord J Psych; 61(1):54-61.
6. Hogberg et al. (2008). Psych Res; doi:10.1016/j.psychres.2007.10.019.
7. Pagani et al. (2007). Nuc Med Comm; 28(10):757-65. [Pagani abstract]
Introduction In recent years the number of studies in disorders caused by traumatic events has been greatly accelerated by detecting the existence of morphological and physiological changes in specific brain areas associated with both the emotional response to trauma to the onset of symptoms Post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD).
The use of neuroimaging techniques has allowed to shed light on the neural correlates of psychotherapy, revealing the neurobiological effects on brain function. Under the different psychotherapeutic approaches, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy) has emerged as a promising resource for the treatment of trauma and other anxiety disorders, although still not been fully elucidated its mode of action on neural circuits. Many studies have been carried out to assess the effectiveness EMDR, but only a small number of them have investigated the neurobiological substrate of this psychotherapy.
The methods used so far for neuroimaging studies on EMDR are Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The first collects data on 'brain cells while the second contains structural anatomical data.
The functional studies performed with SPECT to identify changes in metabolism and cerebral blood flow, suggesting a specific role for each brain area involved in the complex mechanism underlying the processing of emotions, instead of MRI allows detection of morphological changes and volume of specific brain structures. In recent years, MRI and SPECT studies, aimed to examine the effects of EMDR on brain pathophysiology in patients with anxiety disorders, have found substantial variations in blood flow and structural alterations of some brain regions after treatment.
The effectiveness of EMDR in the treatment of PTSD was confirmed by a SPECT study in six subjects (Lansing et al.) (1) showed that after treatment reduced blood flow in the occipital lobe bilaterally and in left parietal lobe and a increase of flow in left inferior frontal gyrus. Always using SPECT Oh and Choi (2) reported a significant change of cerebral blood flow after EMDR, mainly found in limbic and prefrontal cortex. A recent study using MRI (3) has also highlighted an increase in volume of the hippocampus after treatment with EMDR, but no increase in reported work of Lindauer et al. on 9 subjects with PTSD, despite the clinical success of eclectic psychotherapy performed (4).
Objectives: Our group has studied the effects of short and long term EMDR (5, 6) demonstrating its effectiveness in treating traumatized individuals at work, and stability of clinical improvement obtained in response to therapy, yet this distance three years. Within the same project were also studied changes in cerebral blood flow and volume of certain brain structures in relation to treatment with EMDR. A first SPECT study analyzed the change in flow distribution in 11 subjects clinically recovered from PTSD after EMDR compared with 5 subjects in whom treatment had no effect (7). Results: It was shown in patients with symptomatic remission, significant differences in flow in 4 cortical areas, which are attributable to dysfunction of some symptoms of PTSD being present. Flow decreases post-treatment were recorded in the hippocampus, cortex parietal-occipital and primary visual cortex. The hippocampus and 'seat of short-term memory, the parietal-occipital cortex processes the recognition of faces, bodies and words, the primary visual cortex preserves the visual memory of events. The lack of inhibition and / or 'hyperactivity' of PTSD in these regions are responsible for the pathological review of the traumatic event and the presence of flashbacks and hallucinatory images. Moreover, the dorsolateral frontal cortex showed an increase in flow in subjects who responded positively to therapy. This key region in addition to being appointed to inhibit the pathological response to stimuli that recall the traumatic event and 'essential for the processes of attention and self-esteem, decreased in the course of PTSD and recovered following the remission of the disease. In further studies that combine functional and structural investigations using SPECT and MRI have shown the predictive value of the size of the hippocampus on the effectiveness of EMDR therapy (Pagani et al. Submitted).
Conclusion: the effects of EMDR therapy were coupled with a significant improvement in symptoms and a reduction of hyperreactivity to stimuli, emotional, functional in a normalization of some specific areas and an increase in hippocampal volume probably due to neo- neurogenesis. These results are consistent with previous literature and with current knowledge about PTSD and suggest a neurobiological basis of therapeutic EMDR confirming the functional impact on brain structures involved in anxiety-disorders.
Bibliography:
1. Lansing et al. (2005). J Neuropsych Clin Neurosci, 17 (4) :526-532.
2. I DH and J. Choi (2007). J EMDR pract Res, 1 (1) :24-30.
3. Bossini et al. (2007). J Neuropsych Clin Neurosci, 19 (4) :475-476.
4. Lindauer et al. (2005). Psychol Med, 35 :1-11.
5. Högberg et al. (2007). Nord J Psych, 61 (1) :54-61.
6. Högberg et al. (2008). Psych Res, doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2007.10.019.
7. Pagani et al. (2007). NUC Med Comm, 28 (10) :757-65. [Pagani abstract]
Keywords: Brain Functions Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
39. Young, J., & Zangwill, W. (1995, June). Integrating schema-focused therapy & EMDR. Presentation at the EMDR Network Conference, Santa Monica, CA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Dr. Young has developed an integrative model that seems especialy appropriate for combining with EMDR. According to the
theory proposed, eighteen Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) are at the core of personality disorders. An EMS is defined as an
extremely broad, pervasive theme regarding oneself and one's relationship with others, developed during childhood and elaborated
throughout one's lifetime, and dysfunctional to a significant degree. Shapiro's concept of childhood file folders would be analogous
to the concept of schemas. These eighteen schemas are primarily unconscious but can be brought to awareness through various
strategies, especially EMDR.
This presentation will demonstrate how to integrate the use of Schema-Focused therapy with EMDR. In this model, Schema-
Focused therapy serves as the primary conceptual framework for working with the client while EMDR is seen as the primary change
technique.
The first step in this process is a thorough history taking looking for both traumatic life events and the client's underlying
vulnerabilities and schemas. History taking is accomplished both through client interviews and the use of Lazarus' Multimodal Life
History Questionnaire. The Schema Questionnaire and the Parent Questionnaire developed by Young are given and scored. As part
of this process, the therapist attempts to help the client discriminate memories representing primary trauma versus memories that
represent life long issues. The EMDR model eliciting infonmtion - asking the client about specific events and problems, then
obtaining Pictures, Negative and Positive Cognitions, Affect and Body Sensations as well as SUDS and VOC ratings - is used as
soon as the client is comfortable. Collecting information this way without the use of Eye Movements has been shown to be a very
effective way of tapping into the neural network where related memories are stored. The grouping of these memories often appears
to be along such schema lines as Vulnerability, Defectiveness, Abandonment, etc.
As the therapeutic relationship develops, clients are educated about EMDR and schemas. The last part of this process is the Case
Conceptualization. This involves putting together the information from history taking, the schema questionnaire and the parent
questionnaire and the client's in-session behavior to formulate a useful picture of client problems, likely problem origins, and
recommended change techniques. Knowing what issues/themes your client is vulnerable to, tells you where to start your EMDR
exploration. It also helps suggests where to probe when processing stops, i.e., what blocking beliefs may be present, what type of
cognitive interweave to use, etc.
Once the case conceptualization is complete, EMDR is used as always. However, the use of Schema Focused therapy with EMDR
broadens the scope of EMDR.
1) Cognitive Therapy for Personalitv Disorders: A Schema-Focused Approach. Revised Ed.
Professional Resource Press, Sarasota, FL, (813)366-7913; 2) Reinventing Your Life, J. Young and J. Klosko. New York, Plume, 1994.
Keywords: Schema-Focused Therapy
Accuracy Verified: Yes
40. Young, J., & Zangwill, W. M. (1996, June). Integrating schema-focused therapy with EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Denver, CO.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Dr. Young has developed an integrative model that seems especialy appropriate for combining with EMDR. According to the
theory proposed, eighteen Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) are at the core of personality disorders. An EMS is defined as an
extremely broad, pervasive theme regarding oneself and one's relationship with others, developed during childhood and elaborated
throughout one's lifetime, and dysfunctional to a significant degree. Shapiro's concept of childhood file folders would be analogous
to the concept of schemas. These eighteen schemas are primarily unconscious but can be brought to awareness through various
strategies, especially EMDR.
This presentation will demonstrate how to integrate the use of Schema-Focused therapy with EMDR. In this model, Schema-
Focused therapy serves as the primary conceptual framework for working with the client while EMDR is seen as the primary change
technique.
The first step in this process is a thorough history taking looking for both traumatic life events and the client's underlying
vulnerabilities and schemas. History taking is accomplished both through client interviews and the use of Lazarus' Multimodal Life
History Questionnaire. The Schema Questionnaire and the Parent Questionnaire developed by Young are given and scored. As part
of this process, the therapist attempts to help the client discriminate memories representing primary trauma versus memories that
represen life long issues. The EMDR model eliciting information - asking the client about specific events and problems, then
obtaining Pictures, Negative and Positive Cognitions, Affect and Body Sensations as well as SUDS and VOC ratings - is used as
soon as the client is comfortable. Collecting information this way without the use of Eye Movements has been shown to be a very
effective way of tapping into the neural network where related memories are stored. The grouping of these memories often appears
to be along such schema lines as Vulnerability, Defectiveness, Abandonment, etc.
As the therapeutic relationship develops, clients are educated about EMDR and schemas. The last part of this process is the Case
Conceptualization. This involves putting together the infonmtion from history taking, the schema questionnaire and the parent
questionnaire and the client's in-session behavior to formulate a useful picture of client problems, likely problem origins, and
recommended change techniques. Knowing what issues/themes your client is vulnerable to, tells you where to start your EMDR
exploration. It also helps suggests where to probe when processing stops, i.e., what blocking beliefs may be present, what type of
cognitive interweave to use, etc.
Once the case conceptualization is complete, EMDR is used as always. However, the use of Schema Focused therapy with EMDR
broadens the scope of EMDR.
1)Cognitive Therapy for Personality Disorders: A Schema-Focused Approach. Revised Ed.
Professional Resource Press, Sarasota, FL, (813) 366-7913
2)Reinventing Your Life, J. Young and J. Klosko. New York, Plume, 1994.
Keywords: Schema-Focused Therapy
Accuracy Verified: Yes
41. Pagani, M. (2010, June). Introduction to neuroimaging in EMDR research. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
In the recent years the number of neuroimaging studies
evaluating neural correlates of psychotherapy has steadily
increased revealing its clear neurobiological effects on brain
function across a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Functional
studies by single photon emission computed tomography
(SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) detect
changes in cerebral blood flow and metabolism patterns, identifying
the brain areas processing the various components of
emotional processing and/or affected by the disorders. investigations
by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have also revealed
psychiatry disease-related structural changes.
The first part of the workshop (20 minutes) will describe the
neuroimaging methodologies implemented in EMDR research
and their possible clinical implementations will be discussed.
In the second part (10 minutes) neuroimaging studies on the
neurobiological effect of EMDR will be reviewed (1-5).
The third part of the workshop (30 minutes) will deal with the
last findings in EMDR research and will focus on a recent studies
published by our group on the Journal of Psychiatry Research
about the predictive value of MRI on the outcome of
EMDR therapy (6).Moreover a collaborator of our group will
describe and present the preliminary findings of an ongoing experiment
aiming to identify the neurophysiological mechanisms
active during EMDR therapy.
The description and the discussion about the contents of the
workshop will provide the audience
1 the necessary information to understand the methodological
principles behind the neuroimaging techniques (PET and
SPECT) and their possible applications in research and clinic;
2, the critical knowledge of the limited number of published
papers in the field of EMDR-related functional and anatomical
studies (1-6);
3. the basic research principles and examples to be motivated
to begin, take part and/or collaborate to EMDR research in order
to shed light on the neural basis of this fascinating psychotherapeutic
technique.
The presented material will represent the state-of-the-art of the
current neuroscience EMDR-related research and of the neuroimaging
methodologies available at the moment.
in case more contributions will be included in this workshop the
proposed presentation time schedule might change.
References:
Lansing et al. (2005). J Neuropsych Clin Neurosci; l7(4):526-532.
Propper et al. (2007). J Nerv Met Dis; 195:785-788.
Ho DH and Choi J. (2007). J EMDR Pract Res; l(l):24-30.
Pagani et al. (2007). Nuc Med Comm: 28(10):757-65.
Bossini et al (2007). J Neuropsych Clin Neurosci; 19(4):475-476.
Nardo et al. (2010). J Psychiatry Res; D0110.1016/jjpsychires.2009.10.014
Keywords: Neuroimaging Research
Accuracy Verified: Yes
42. Hassard, A. (1995). Investigation of eye movement desensitization in pain clinic clients. Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 23(2), 177-185. doi:/10.1017/S1352465800014429.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
27 pain clinic patients referred for psychological treatment received Eye Movement Desensitization (EMD) as a major part of their treatment. Their progress was monitored using generalized measures with a three month follow-up. All patients responded to EMD in the session. Subsequently, 19 completed treatment of whom 12 were successful and 7 clear failures. 7 dropped out before completing treatment and one result was not clear. Overall the group showed a large decrease in some, but not all, psychological measures. There was some return of symptoms in the group over the 3 month follow-up. Neural networks are identified as the probable source of theoretical explanations of this procedure. [Author Abstract]
Keywords: Adults British Clinical Trial EMD Physical Pain PTSD Stressors Survivors Treatment Effectiveness
Accuracy Verified: Yes
43. McGoldrick, J. (1997, November/December). Invisible force. Common Boundary.
Language: English
Format: Magazine
Abstract:
Of course, not all therapists who learn TFT stick to it exclusively. Many combine talk
therapy with both TFT and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), in
which a client recalls a traumatic memory while moving his or her eyes in a prescribed
pattern. While both therapies apparently break up long-held patterns, EMDR is usually
described in terms of physiology, not energy. EMDR, practitioners say, reconnects the
brain's neural networks that have been isolated by trauma.
Keywords: Energy Psychology TFT Thought Field Therapy
Accuracy Verified: Yes
44. Bergmann, U. (2011). Les mécanismes d'action neurobiologiques de l'EMDR: Un aperçu de 20 ans de recherche [The neurobiological mechanisms of action of EMDR: An overview of 20 years of research]. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 5(2), 23E-45E. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.5.2.E23.
Language: French
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Historiquement, les mécanismes d’action se sont souvent avérés difficiles à identifier. Les mécanismes
d’action sous-jacents de l’EMDR échappent encore aujourd’hui aux tentatives de découverte définitive.
Nous examinons les études neurobiologiques de l’EMDR ainsi que les modèles spéculatifs théoriques
qui ont été proposés à ce jour. Les modèles théoriques spéculatifs sont analysés dans une perspective
historique en vue d’illustrer leur évolution en termes de complexité et de spécificité neurobiologique. Les
études neurobiologiques de l’EMDR sont également analysées en fonction de leur objet d’investigation
et classées selon les données obtenues avant et après la thérapie EMDR (études de neuroimagerie et
psychophysiologiques) et selon les données recueillies pendant les séries de stimulations bilatérales
alternées en EMDR (études psychophysiologiques, de neuroimagerie et de qEEG).
Historically, the mechanisms of action have often proved difficult to identify. Mechanism
actions underlying EMDR still escape the attempts of discovery final.
We examine the neurobiological study of EMDR and theoretical speculative models
that have been proposed to date. Theoretical models are discussed in a speculative perspective
history to illustrate their evolution in terms of complexity and specificity neurobiological. The
neurobiological studies of EMDR are also analyzed according to their subject of investigation
and classified according to the data obtained before and after EMDR (neuroimaging studies and
psychophysiological) and based on data collected during a series of bilateral stimulation
alternating in EMDR (psychophysiological studies, neuroimaging and QEEG).
Keywords: Neural Mechanisms Neurobiological Research Speculation
Accuracy Verified: Yes
45. Egli-Bernd, H. (2009, October). MDR bei dissoziativen prozessen im rahmen von persönlichkeitsstörungen ; Zur Bedeutung der kognitionen im EMDR-prozess, Das „Dialog-Protokoll“ [EMDR in dissociative processes within the framework of Personality Disorders; On the importance of cognitions in EMDR process, The "dialogue protocol"] . EMDR Deutschland e.V. Rundbrief, 19, 20-34.
Language: German
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
Spezifische Schwierigkeiten bei einer Gruppe von KlientInnen mit Persönlichkeitsstörungen bei der Wahl adäquater Kognitionen erfordern eine theoretische Auseinandersetzung mit der psychodynamischen Bedeutung der Kognitionen im EMDR-Protokoll. Die biographische Gemeinsamkeit dieser Patientengruppe ist der emotional-narzisstische Missbrauch in der Kindheit sowie Vernachlässigung durch primäre Bindungs- und Beziehungspersonen. Diese Lebenserfahrungen haben zur Folge, dass durch eine subtile Dissoziation (kindliche) Selbstteile entstehen, die emotional und kognitiv auf dasjenige Selbstbild fixiert sind, welches von den Bindungs- und Beziehungspartnern definiert und vom Kind verinnerlicht wurde. Das Ziel der Bearbeitung mit der EMDR-Methode ist in diesen Fällen nicht primär das anvisierte Ereignis, sondern dessen komplexe emotionale und kognitive Bedeutung für die Selbstwahrnehmung und -bewertung.
Im vorliegenden Artikel wird vorgeschlagen, bei der EMDR-Bearbeitung dieser spezifischen Foki während der Bewertungsphase 3 sich der subtilen dissoziativen Struktur bewusst zu sein und sich ihrer, falls nötig, explizit zu bedienen. Dies geschieht durch die Fokussierung auf die gleichzeitige „Aktivierung“ zweier neuronaler Netzwerke (Selbstteile,) nämlich des „betroffenen (kindlichen) Selbst“ (Traumanetzwerk) und des erwachsenen „Gegenwarts-Selbst“ (Alltagsnetzwerk). Die Formulierung des schlimmsten Momentes (Bild), der Negativen Kognition sowie Affekt und Körperlokalisierung obliegen dem „betroffenen Selbst“, welches das zu bearbeitende verzerrte Selbstbild verinnerlicht hat. Die Positive Kognition hingegen soll vom „Gegenwarts-Selbst“ als eine dialogische, alternative Sichtweise aus der Gegenwartsperspektive formuliert und in den EMDR Prozess als direkte Anrede in der 2.Person Einzahl eingebracht werde n („du bist…“ etc.)
Specific difficulties in a group of clients with personality disorders in the choice of adequate cognition require a theoretical discussion of the psychodynamic significance of cognitions in EMDR protocol. The biography of this common group of patients is the emotional and narcissistic childhood abuse and neglect through primary attachment and relationship people. These life experiences have the effect that, due to a subtle dissociation (childish) Auto Parts, which are fixed to that of emotional and cognitive self-image, which was defined by the attachment and relationship partners and internalized by the child. The goal of treatment with the EMDR method in these cases is not primarily the targeted event, but the complex emotional and cognitive meaning for the self-perception and assessment.
In this article it is proposed to be in the EMDR treatment of these specific foci during the evaluation phase 3 is aware of the subtle dissociative structure of her, if necessary, to use explicitly. This is done by focusing on the simultaneous "activation" of two neural networks (auto parts,) namely, the "concerned (children's) self" (Trauma Network) and the adult "present-self '(everyday network). The wording of the worst moment (picture), the negative cognition and affect and body localization is responsible for the "self-interested", which has internalized the distorted self-image to be processed. The positive cognition on the other hand will be the "present-self," formulated as a dialogical, alternative view from the present perspective, and placed in the EMDR process as a direct address to the 2nd person singular ("you are ..." etc.).
Keywords: Cognitions Dialogue Protcol Dissociation Personality Disorders
Accuracy Verified: Yes
46. Gómez, A. M. (2011). Mecanismos neurobiologicos del trastorno por estrés postraumático y la Terapia EMDR[Neurobiological mechanisms of PTSD and EMDR therapy]. Revista Iberoamericana de Psicotraumatología y Disociación, 1(1). Retrieved from http://revibapst.com/ARTICULO%20ALAIDE%202011.pdf on 12/9/2012.
Language: Spanish
Format: Other
Abstract:
El trastorno por estrés postraumático (TEPT) se caracteriza por temor, desesperanza u horror intensos en personas que han sido expuestas a acontecimientos traumáticos. La terapia de Desensibilización y Reprocesamiento por Movimiento Ocular (EMDR), es reconocida como un tratamiento efectivo y eficiente para tratar el TEPT. Diversos estudios han demostrado alteraciones anatómico-fisiológicas y neurobiológicas en los pacientes que presentan este trastorno, ya que intervienen estructuras como la amígdala, tálamo y diferentes áreas de la corteza prefrontal. Debido a lo anterior, se han realizado estudios sobre los mecanismos neurales y la implicación neurobiológica de la terapia EMDR en el TEPT, así como alteraciones en la función cognitiva dentro de la sintomatología clínica que se observa en los pacientes con este trastorno.
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by fear, helplessness or horror severe in people who have been exposed to traumatic events. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is recognized as an effective and efficient in treating PTSD. Several studies have shown anatomical and physiological alterations in neurobiological patients with this disorder, and involved structures like the amygdala, thalamus and different areas of the prefrontal cortex. Because of this, there have been studies on the neural mechanisms and neurobiological implications of EMDR in PTSD, as well as alterations in cognitive function within the clinical symptoms observed in patients with this disorder.
Keywords: Cognitive Function Neurobiology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
47. Barrett, S. (2003, July 10). Mental help: Procedures to avoid. Quackwatch. Retrieved from http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/mentserv.html 6/7/2007.
Language: English
Format: Other
Abstract:
Many types of practitioners who profess to treat mental problems are engaged in
questionable practices. The following procedures should be avoided.
Keywords: AIT Auditory Integration Training Doman-Delacato Treatment Facilitated Communication Neural Organization Technique Neuro Emotional Technique NET Neurolinguistic Programming Neurotherapy NLP NOT Optometric Visual Training Past-Life Therapy Routine Personality Testing Stimulation of False Memories Skeptics TFT Thought Field Therapy
Accuracy Verified: Yes
48. Zarghi, A., Zali1, A., & Tehranidost, M. (2013, February). Methodological aspects of cognitive rehabilitation with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Basic and Clincal Neuroscience, 4(1), 97-103.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
A variety of nervous system components such as medulla, pons, midbrain, cerebellum, basal
ganglia, parietal, frontal and occipital lobes have role in Eye Movement Desensitization and
Reprocessing (EMDR) processes. The eye movement is done simultaneously for attracting
client's attention to an external stimulus while concentrating on a certain internal subject. Eye
movement guided by therapist is the most common attention stimulus. The role of eye movement
has been documented previously in relation with cognitive processing mechanisms. A series
of systemic experiments have shown that the eyes’ spontaneous movement is associated with
emotional and cognitive changes and results in decreased excitement, flexibility in attention,
memory processing, and enhanced semantic recalling. Eye movement also decreases the
memory's image clarity and the accompanying excitement. By using EMDR, we can reach
some parts of memory which were inaccessible before and also emotionally intolerable.
Various researches emphasize on the effectiveness of EMDR in treating and curing phobias,
pains, and dependent personality disorders. Consequently, due to the involvement of multiple
neural system components, this palliative method of treatment can also help to rehabilitate the
neuro-cognitive system.
Keywords: Rehabilitation
Accuracy Verified: Yes
49. Greene, J. (2010, April/Mayl). Mindfulness and EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of EMDR Canada, Toronto, Ontario.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This session explores the synergy of Mindfulness and EMDR, specifically in relation to strengthening client affect tolerance, body awareness, observer capacity and self-acceptance. These skills are particularly useful in the Preparation phase of EMDR in order to build a strong foundation for the Desensitization phase of the Trauma Protocol. We will look at Mindfulness techniques, combined with Resource Development and Installation (RDI), that are useful for both rigid/conceptualizing clients and chaotic/overemotional clients. Research linking Mindfulness with neural plasticity and neural integration will be highlighted. The session includes lecture, case review and short experiential Mindfulness exercises.
Keywords: Mindfulness
Accuracy Verified: Yes
50. Siegel, D. (2011, August). Mindsight and the power of neutral integration in healing. Plenary presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Orange County, CA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
In this seminar, we’ll discuss strategies that patients can learn to monitor and modify energy and information flow with more clarity and power, and also describe how the process of integration can serve as an organizing principle that illuminates the nature of resilience and well-being. Integration is defined as the linkage of differentiated parts of a system. When integration is present, flexibility and harmony result; when integration is absent, chaos or rigidity occur. EMDR can be seen as a profoundly useful integrative therapeutic practice. Mindsight is a teachable skill with which people can learn to monitor energy and information flow with clarity and depth and then modulate that flow with specificity and power toward integration. Within this framework, clinicians can focus assessment on the findings of chaos and rigidity as examples of impediments to integration. Clinical intervention harnesses the power of therapeutic techniques to cultivate differentiation and linkage in various domains of integration that may be impaired.
Keywords: Neural Integration
Accuracy Verified: Yes
51. Manfield, P. (1995, June). Narcissistic disorders: Using EMDR with these difficult clients. Presentation at the EMDR Network Conference Santa Monica, CA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Definition of client population:
Disorder of the self. The narcissistic character is often identified by his or her grandiose facade concealing an underlying sense of
emptiness and worthlessness. To experience the underlying emptiness is so painful for them that these people cut off their inner
experience and rely instead on external admiration and praise to support their grandiose or superior view of themselves; their
condition is often referred to as a "disorder of the self." Because of their dependence on others for their sense of themselves, they are
exquisitely sensitive to criticism or disapproval, often warding off deflation by becoming increasingly grandiose, superior, disdainful
or demeaning. Many conceal their grandiosity, maintaining a secret sense of superiority which may be based upon their
perfectionism or their quiet devaluing of others.
View of others: there is a range of severity of the narcissistic character from personality disorders to a narcissistic character style.
People with personality disorders, are unable to form a trusting bond with another person; they view people primarily as
interchangeable, performing a function which could equally be performed by many others. Less impaired narcissistic characters,
however, are able to form varying degrees of attachments to other people, although their ability to trust and care about other people
is limited. Most commonly they relate to people they can idealize or be admired by. People tend to be seen in extremes as either
superior and powerful or inferior and worthless; supportive and admiring or critical and attacking.
Difficulties in using EMDR:
Clinically these clients represent a difficult and often frustrating population to treat; they are brittle and easily injured if they to not
feel perfectly understood by their therapists, and they will distance at the slightest hint that they are being judged or used. They
resist focusing inward and defining their problems as arising within themselves, and find it difficult to sustain any genuine affect,
other than perhaps rage. If they feel understood and accepted, however, they will eventually talk about their sense of emptiness and
worthlessness and their confusion about who they are and what is truly meaningful and valuable to them.
Beck, Young and others have described factors that make it difficult to treat any personality disorder using a cognitive behavioral
approach. There have in fact been very few reported "successes" in the literature. Most of the difficulties are related to the self and
object splitting characteristic of these clients. These clients have limited access to feelings, limited access to spontaneous thoughts,
body sensations, memories, etc., and vague unfocussed presenting problems making targeting difficult. They usually have difficulty
with emotional and often intellectual continuity from session to session; they will rarely keep a log or follow through with
homework; transference issues often come into central focus and must be addressed before other targets; and their selfdefeating
beliefs and behavior patterns are extremely deeply held, pervasive and resistant to change.
In addition to varying degrees of these difficulties, narcissistic clients present all of the problems in EMDR that they do in more
traditional therapies; including their tendencies to act out, deny, and avoid. These and other defenses interfere with completion of
segments of therapeutic work and make it difficult for the clinician to keep work focused within one neural network. Self and object
splitting leads to continuity problems within or between sessions and a difficulty maintaining clarity about the reason for being in
treatment. The client may feel suicidal one week and declare himself or herself to be fully recovered the next. Perhaps the most
confirming aspect of the treatment of these clients, however, is their emotionally impoverished pasts; they have very limited
experience of nurturing, loving and caring to draw !?om in order to interweave new meanings and perspectives into traumatic or
painful past experiences.
Length of treatment:
I have found that I have been able to achieve good results with higher level narcissistic clients with whom I have had an established
relationship at the time I introduced EMDR into the treatment. My results with clients who have come to therapy asking specifically
for EMDR and with whom I have begun using EMDR soon after the beginning of treatment have been generally poorer, varying
with the severity of the client's disorder, the less severe doing best. The client needs to be able to establish a meaningful trusting
relationship with the therapist; the more severe the client's difficulties with attachment, the more time this process requires.
Narcissistic clients do not tend to see their difficulty with vulnerability, trust and intimacy as a problem within themselves. If they
are able to recognize personal problems, they are usually in the area of self esteem and obstacles to achievement. When they are
able to resolve some of these latter problems fairly rapidly through treatment they tend to terminate, no longer seeing a sufficient
purpose for treatment. In a sense, they can become better narcissists; their grandiose view of themselves is enhanced and they are
reinforced in their use of self-sufficiency as a defense against interpersonal vulnerability. I view the relative efficiency of EMDR as
a problem for deeper treatment of narcissistic clients because there is less time for the therapeutic relationship to develop and
consequently a limited opportunity to impact the client's object splitting. I believe that this is why I have found EMDR with
narcissistic clients to be most effective when it is introduced after a therapeutic relationship has had time to develop. Negative cognitions:
The early maladaptive schemas of narcissistic clients are pervasive in their lives and point to a plethora of negative cognitions.
Typical early schemas are: I must control myself (or my feelings, my behavior, my body) at all times; no one cares; my needs will
never be met; I can't trust anyone; I am deeply flawed and unlovable; I am dikeable, unattractive to others; I will always fail; my
flaws are totally unacceptable to others; I must be perfect or I am worthless; I deserve to be treated more specially than others; I must
please others to avoid attack; I'm alone; nobody understands me; I am OK if I am better than others; I am OK only if others admire
me. It is often helpful to narrow these cognitions down to make them manageable with EMDR
Treatment:
In addition to the recommended protocol of establishing a safe space to which the client can retreat if necessary, before doing an
EMDR session with one of these clients, the therapist should identify as many of the client's emotional resources possible, in
particular expriences if any of having felt loved and accepted ad examples of loving people or relationships the client has observed
Among other things, these facilitate more effective copitive interweaves.
The initial task in doing an EMDR session with this client population is to establish an appropriate and richly defined target. Since
it is more difficult for these clients to access meanm&l memories in an emotionally alive way, the therapist must be more active in
helping the client stimulate the associated neural netork as I l l y as possible. In addition to the client's reaction to the plight of
children he may be related to or observe (Level I1 training), a rich source of emotional responsiveness and resources is the client's
own response to situations he has witnessed in news media, TV, movies or theater.
A major challenge in addressing a narcissistic character type using EMDR is tracking the course of the session with these clients
and identifying when they drip out of the targeted neural network. This process can be subtle because it requires an ability to
differentiate true avoidance hm spontaneous associations which may appear at hat to be irrelevant; it requires a familiarity with
and sensitivity to the protective or defensive mechanisms they use to insulate themselves fiom painful memories and affect. As the
patterns ofmovement in and out of the targeted network are identified it is important to use interventions that are experienced by the
client as supportive but nevertheless make hun or her aware of having wandered.
Although the narcissistic client may initiate treatment with the stated goal of improving his performance in specified areas, he will
agree upon reflection that the real problem is that he feels an overriding need to perform in order to feel worthwhile. Since he has
never known any other way of dealing with his self-worth, he will be skeptical about whether it is possible to feel a sense of worth
that is not based upon performance, and it is easy for the therapist to lose perspective and join him in that beliet especially while
doing EMDR with its potential for reprocessing with extraordinary precision specific obstacles to performance. The therapist must,
however, retain her healthy perspective if the client is to learn to accept himself.
For more clinical information about treating disorders of the self:
1.)Beck, Aaron T., et al, Cognitive Therapy Of Personality Disorder Guilford Press, New York,
N. Y., 1990
2.)Manfield, Philip, Split Self/Split Object: Understanding And Treating Borderline, Narcissistic And Schizoid Disorders, Jason Aronson Publishers, Northvale, N.J., 1992.
3.)Young, Jeffrey, E, Cognitive Therapy For Personality Disorders: A Schema-Focused Approach,
Professional Resource Exchange, Inc., Sarasota, Florida, 1990.
Keywords: Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Accuracy Verified: Yes
52. Tokunaga, H., Ikejiri, Y., Kazui, H., Masaki, Y., Hatta, N., Doronbekov, T. K., Honda, M., Oku, N., Hatazawa, J., Nishikawa, T., & Takeda, M. (2006). Neural correlates of symptom improvement in posttraumatic stress disorder: Positron emission tomography study. In N. Kato; M. Kawata, & R. K. Pitman, (Eds.), PTSD: Brain mechanisms and clinical implications (pp. 247-254). Tokyo: Springer-Verlag.
Language: English
Format: Book Section
Abstract:
We studied the neural basis of reexperiencing in patients with PTSD using positron emission tomography (PET) and investigated the change in the neural activities from before to after improvement of PTSD symptoms. As a therapy for PTSD, we used the eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) procedure. Although the mechanism by which EMDR acts is unclear, its efficacy for PTSD is comparable to cognitive behavioral therapy. [Text pp. 247-248][Pilots]
Keywords: Adults Arousal Brain Imaging Crime Neurophysiology Japanese Survivors Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Reexperiencing
Accuracy Verified: Yes
53. Bergmann, U. (2004). Neurobiologia del EMDR: Especulaciones y pensamientos [Neurobiology of EMDR: Speculations and thoughts]. In R.O. Lescano & D. Arazi (Eds.), Trauma y EMDR: Un nuevo abordaje Terapeutico [Trauma and EMDR: A new therapeutic approach] (pp. 271-294), Buenos Aires: EMDRIA Latinoamerica.
Language: Spanish
Format: Book Section
Abstract:
No abstract available.
Keywords: Neural Mechanisms Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
54. Pagani, M. (2010, Novembre). Neurobiologia e nuovi concetti fisiopatologici dell’EMDR [Neurobiology and new concepts pathophysiological EMDR]. Presentazione al "Convegno La psicotraumatologia Oncologica, Roma, Italia.
Language: Italian
Format: Conference
Abstract:
La sindrome da stress post-traumatico (PTSD) causa nel cervello cambiamenti sia anatomici sia funzionali in specifiche aree cerebrali associate alla risposta emotiva al trauma ed alla relativa insorgenza dei sintomi. Studi di immagini funzionali (tomografia ad emissione di fotone singolo, SPECT, e a emissione di positroni, PET) e strutturali (risonanza magnetica, RM) hanno evidenziato significative variazioni neuropatologiche in pazienti con PTSD durante la rivisitazione del trauma.
L’impiego di queste tecniche ha consentito di fare luce sui correlati neurali della psicoterapia, rivelando i suoi effetti neurobiologici sulle funzioni cerebrali. Nell’ambito dei diversi approcci psicoterapeutici, l’EMDR (Desensibilizzazione e rielaborazione attraverso i movimenti oculari) è emerso come promettente risorsa per il trattamento del trauma e di altri disturbi d’ansia, sebbene ancora non sia stata completamente chiarita la sua modalità di azione sui circuiti neurali. Tuttavia solo un numero esiguo di studi ha indagato il substrato neurobiologico di questa psicoterapia. Verranno discussi studi che il nostro gruppo ha recentemente pubblicato su riviste internazionali e che hanno dimostrato con la SPECT come l’EMDR normalizzi il flusso ematico cerebrale nelle aree limbiche implicate nel PTSD (1) e con la RM come nei pazienti che non rispondono a terapia molte di queste aree presentino una diminuzione rilevante della densità della sostanza grigia (2). Verranno inoltre presentati i risultati preliminari del primo studio che monitora completamente con EEG una seduta EMDR e dimostra le attivazioni che i cicli di desensibilizzazione per se provocano a livello corticale e subcorticale sia durante la prima seduta che durante l’ultima quando il soggetto ha elaborato il trauma.
1. Nardo D et al. J Psychiat Res 2010; 44:477-485
2. Pagani M et al. Nucl Med Commun 2007; 28: 757-765
The syndrome of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) causes changes in the brain is anatomical and functional in specific brain areas associated with emotional response to trauma and the related onset of symptoms. Studies of the functional (single photon emission computed tomography, SPECT, and emission tomography, PET) and structural (magnetic resonance imaging, MRI) have shown significant neuropathological changes in patients with PTSD during revisiting the trauma.
The use of these techniques has allowed to shed light on the neural correlates of psychotherapy, revealing the neurobiological effects on brain function. Under the different psychotherapeutic approaches, EMDR (Desensitization and reprocessing through eye movements) has emerged as a promising resource for the treatment of trauma and other anxiety disorders, although still not been fully elucidated its mode of action neural circuits. However, only a small number of studies have investigated the neurobiological substrate of this psychotherapy. They will discuss studies that our group has recently published in international journals and who have demonstrated with SPECT as EMDR normalize cerebral blood flow in the limbic areas implicated in PTSD (1) and with MRI as in patients who do not respond to therapy many of these areas present a significant decrease in the density of gray matter (2). We will also present the preliminary results of the first study that monitors completely with EEG and demonstrates an EMDR session activations and cycles of desensitization if they cause in the cortex and subcortical both during the first session that during the last when the subject has developed the trauma.
1. D Nardo et al. J Psychiat Res 2010; 44:477-485
2. Pagani M et al. Nucl Med Commun 2007; 28: 757-765
Keywords: Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
55. Bergmann, U. (2012). Neurobiological foundations for EMDR practice. New York, NY: Springer Publishing Company.
Language: English
Format: Book
Abstract:
This volume introduces the most current research about the neural underpinnings of consciousness and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) in regard to attachment traumatic stress and dissociation. It is the first book to comprehensively integrate new findings in information processing, consciousness, traumatic disorders of information processing, chronic trauma and autoimmune compromises, and EMDR's underlying mechanisms of action.
The text examines online/wakeful information processing, including sensation, perception, somatosensory integration, cognition, memory, language and motricity, and off-line/sleep information processing, such as slow wave sleep and cognitive memorial processing, as well as REM/dream sleep and its function in emotional memory processing. The volume also addresses disorders of consciousness, including coma, anesthesia, and other neurological disorders, particularly disorders of Type 1 PTSD, complex PTSD/dissociative disorders, and personality disorders. It delves into chronic trauma and autoimmune function, especially in regard to diseases of unknown origin, and examines them from the perspective of autoimmune compromises resulting from the unusual neuroendocrine profile of PTSD sufferers. The final section integrates all material to illustrate the ability of EMDR's bilateral neural stimulation to impact, mediate, and change the functioning of neural circuitry, thereby facilitating repair in the linking and binding of neural networks.
Keywords: Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
56. Pagani, M., Salmaso, D., Flumeri, F., & Hogberg, G. (2008, June). The neurobiological substrates of PTSD and EMDR therapy. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, London, England UK.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
In the recent years, the number of studies using neuro-imaging to evaluate neural correlates of psychotherapy
has steadily increased revealing its clear neurobiological effects on brain function across a wide range of
psychiatric disorders. Functional studies by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron
emission tomography (PET) can now reliably detect changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and metabolism
patterns, suggesting a specific role for each of the brain areas in various components of emotional processing.
Investigations by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have also revealed psychiatry disease-related structural
changes. Some regions have been reported to be associated with emotional response to trauma, and with
symptom formation in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Several studies have provided evidence for the
efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) in the treatment of PTSD. However
a very limited number of studies have investigated the neurobiological substrate of such therapy in clinical
practice. SPECT and MRI studies, performed to examine the effects of EMDR on brain patho-physiology have
provided some preliminary evidence that changes in brain CBF and structure patterns may follow effective
treatment. In general in PTSD and in anxiety disorders functional deactivations parallel symptoms relief and
decreased hyperreactivity to emotional and memory disturbances. Functional neuro-imaging is a promising tool
for the investigation of the physiological impact of psychotherapy in anxiety related disorders and may thus pave
the road for a better detection of its effects in psychiatric treatment. The scientific literature reporting
PTSD/EMRD related neuro-imaging studies will be extensively reviewed.
Keywords: Neurobiology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
57. Bergmann, U. (2008). The neurobiology of EMDR: Exploring the thalamus and neural integration. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 2(4), 300-314. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.2.4.300.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Recent neuroimaging studies on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have revealed a consistent decrease
in thalamic activity, relative to non-PTSD controls. Empirical studies of the past decade have
shown the thalamus to be centrally involved in the integration of perceptual, somatosensory, memorial,
and cognitive processes (thalamo-cortical-temporal binding). A theoretical model is proposed to suggest
that one underlying mechanism of EMDR stimulation (dual-attention stimulation/bilateral stimulation
[DAS/BLS] ) is thalamic activation, specifi cally of the ventrolateral and central-lateral nuclei. It is hypothesized
that this may facilitate the repair and integration of somatosensory, memorial, cognitive, frontal
lobe and synchronized hemispheric functions that are disrupted in PTSD.
Keywords: 40-Hz Gamma-Band Activity (GBA) Neural Oscillation Thalamo-Cortical-Temporal Binding Thalamus
Accuracy Verified: Yes
58. Bergmann, U., & Bromberg, P. (2003, November). The neurobiology of EMDR: Recent insights and their contribution to the treatment of dissociation. Presentation at the annual meeting of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation Fall Conference, Chicago, IL.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This presentation will explore the formation and consolidation of emotions and memory, various possible neural mechanisms of EMDR's treatment effects; with an emphasis on cerebellar mechanisms, and their direct relation to information processing and frontal lobe activation. Recent knowledge regarding Allan Schore's work on the orbitofrontal cortex and Steven Porges' work on the brainstem will be explored; with a major emphasis given to their implication for improved techniques to facilitate EMDR processing.
Keywords: Dissociation Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
59. Bergmann, U. (2001, December). The neurobiology of EMDR: Recent insights and their contribution to the treatment of dissociation. Presentation at the annual meeting of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation Fall Conference, New Orleans, LA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This presentation will explore the formation and consolidation of emotions and memory, various possible neural mechanisms of EMDR's treatment effects; with an emphasis on cerebellar mechanisms, and their direct relation to information processing and frontal lobe activation. Recent knowledge regarding Allan Schore's work on the orbitofrontal cortex and Steven Porges' work on the brainstem will be explored; with a major emphasis given to their implication for improved techniques to facilitate EMDR processing.
Keywords: Dissociation Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
60. Bergmann, U. (2003, September). The neurobiology of EMDR: Recent insights and their contribution to the treatment of complex PTSD and dissociation. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Denver, CO. ;.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This presentation will explore the formation and consolidation of emotions and memory, various possible neural mechanisms of EMDR's treatment effects, with an emphasis on cerebellar mechanisms, and their direct relations to information processing and frontal lobe activation. Recent knowledge regarding Allan Schore's work on the orbitofrontal cortex and Steven Porge's work on the brainstem will be explored; with a major emphasis given to their implication for improved techniques to facilitate EMDR processing.
Keywords: Alan Schore Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Complex PTSD C-PTSD Neurobiology Dissociation
Accuracy Verified: Yes
61. Bergmann, U. (2002, June). The neurobiology of EMDR: Recent insights and their contribution to the treatment of complex PTSD and dissociation. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, San Diego, CA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This presentation will explore the formation and consolidation of emotions and memory, various possible neural mechanisms of EMDR's treatment
effects; with an emphasis on cerebellar mechanisms, and their direct relation to information processing and frontal lobe activation. Recent knowledge regarding Allan Schore's work on the orbitofrontal cortex and
Steven Porges' work on the brainstem will be explored; with a major emphasis given to their implication for improved techniques to facilitate
EMDR processing.
Keywords: Allan Schore Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Complex PTSD C-PTSD Dissociation Neurobiology Steven Porge
Accuracy Verified: Yes
62. Bergmann, U. (2006, September). The neurobiology of EMDR: Thalamic, cerebellar and pontine/REM processes. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Philadelphia, PA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Clinical case reports and a growing body of
controlled research suggest that EMDR is equally
and perhaps more efficacious when cross-compared
with other methods in treating Posttraumatic Stress
Disorder. However, as EMDR was originally an
empirically driven method, there has persisted a need
for a more defined theoretical model, further
scientific validation, and a neurobiological
understanding of EMDR's reported robust effects.
The possibility that EMDR can effectuate change
on a neurobiological level has fueled speculation as
to the neural-mechanisms that might underlie
EMDR's effects. Brain scans and QEEG's are
beginning to shed light on the alterations of brain
function that EMDR appears to yield. This
presentation will synthesize the existing research
with theoretical speculation correlated with Francine Shapiro's model of the Adaptive Information Processing System. Specific attention will be given to recent empirical findings involving the thalamus
in information processing and memory integration.
This material will be integrated with previously
posited theories regarding the cerebellum's
involvement in many aspects of information
processing and activation processes of the left
prefrontal areas and EMDR's activation of the
neurophysiology of REM-sleep systems. A
neurobiological definition of EMDR serve to
further legitimize its usage. It can also potentially
enlighten our practice by informing preparation,
resourcing and target selection strategies.
Keywords: Cerebellum Neurobiology Thalamus
Accuracy Verified: Yes
63. Bergmann, U. (2003, May). The neurobiology of the EMDR: Recent insights and their contribution to the treatment of dissociation. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Rome, Italy.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This presentation will explore the formation and consolidation of emotions and memory, various possible neural mechanisms of EMDR's treatment effects; with an emphasis on cerebellar mechanisms, and their direct relation to information processing and frontal lobe activation. Recent knowledge regarding Allan Schore's work on the orbitofrontal cortex and Steven Porges' work on the brainstem will be explored; with a major emphasis given to their implication for improved techniques to facilitate EMDR processing.
Keywords: Dissociation Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
64. Lanius, U. (2012, October). Neurobiology, adaptive information processing. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Arlington, VA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Recent neuroscience research is discussed with a view towards increasing our understanding of underlying neurobiological processes with respect to the phenomenology of dissociation. It is suggested that dissociation is a result on a breakdown in the linking of different neural networks in the time domain, e.g. information processing. Recent research suggests that both lower brain structures as well as higher brain structures are involved. It is suggested that this process is essential to our understanding both of dissociation on one hand, as well as Adaptive Information Processing on the other.
Keywords: Adaptive Information Processing AIP Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
65. Pagani, M. (2011, June). Neuroimaging and novel neurobiological findings in EMDR research [Neuroimaging und neuartige neurobiologische erkenntnisse in der EMDR forschung]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Vienna, Austria.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
In the recent years the number of neuroimaging studies evaluating neural correlates of psychotherapy has steadily increased revealing its clear neurobiological effects on brain function across a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Functional studies by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) detect changes in cerebral blood flow and metabolism patterns, identifying the brain areas processing the various components of emotional processing and/or affected by the disorders. Investigations by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have also revealed psychiatry disease-related structural changes.
The first part of the workshop (20 minutes) will describe the neuroimaging methodologies and findings in PTSD/EMDR research with and extensive review of previous literature on the neurobiological effects of EMDR. The second part of the workshop (20 minutes) will deal with the description and implementation in research and clinic of neuropsychological testing with brief comments and discussion about their use in the recent experiments performed by our group. In the third part the EEG monitoring of a complete set of EMDR therapies in 10 patients suffering of major trauma will be presented. The relative results are the first report ever on the neurobiological changes occurring before, during and after EMDR therapy sheding light on the neuronal processes underlying its clinical efficacy.
Learning objectives:
The description and the discussion about the contents of the workshop will provide the audience (1) the necessary information to understand the methodological principles behind the neuroimaging techniques (PET, SPECT and MRI) and their possible applications in research and clinic; (2) the critical knowledge of the limited number of published papers in the field of EMDR-related functional and anatomical studies; (3) the basic research principles and examples to be motivated to begin, take part and/or collaborate to EMDR research in order to better understand the neural basis of this fascinating psychotherapeutic technique.
Keywords: Neurobiology Neuroimaging
Accuracy Verified: Yes
66. 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
67. Grenough, M. (2008, September). OASIS in the overwhelm - For you & your clients: 4 breif strategies to calm, relax, re-wire the brain. Presentation at the annual meeting of EMDR International Association, Phoenix, AZ.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Looking for calm in the chaos – for you and your clients? Examine findings of recent research regarding the brain’s neuroplasticity and our ability to re-wire our own brains. Learn four 60-second strategies that can calm, relax, heighten sense of personal control, diminish power of old patterns, and strengthen healthy neural pathways. Understand and be able to explain to clients how research testifies to the efficacy of these simple strategies and how their implementation can be useful in EMDR treatment. In this highly experiential workshop, you will learn four strategies and explore how/when to use each with your clients – and with yourself.
Keywords: OASIS Relaxation Exercises
Accuracy Verified: Yes
68. Harper, M., Rasolkhani-Kalhorn, T., & Drozd, J. F. (2009, June). On the neural basis of EMDR therapy: Insights from qEEG studies. Traumatology, 15(2), 81-95. doi:10.1177/1534765609338498.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has been shown by empirical studies to be effective in relief from psychological traumas including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Several logical concepts regarding the origin of the EMDR effect have been presented, but no detailed neural explanation is available. This lack of a widely accepted
scientific explanation for the EMDR effect has led to skepticism about the therapy by many therapists and potential clients. The authors present evidence based primarily on quantitative electroencephalogram studies that the neural
basis for the EMDR effect is depotentiation of fear memory synapses in the amygdala during an evoked brain state similar to that of slow wave sleep. These studies suggest that brain stimulation during EMDR significantly increases the power of a naturally occurring low-frequency rhythm in memory areas of the brain, binding these areas together and causing receptors on the synapses of fear memory traces to be disabled. This mechanical change in the memory trace enables it to be incorporated into the normal memory system without the extreme emotions previously associated with it. EMDR is a medical procedure because it changes the physical structure of the brain to modify problematically stored memories.
Keywords: Memory Neuronal Response Frequency Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
69. Lanius, U., & Paulsen, S. (2010, September/October). Part I - Towards an embodied self: The neurobiology of traumatic dissociation. Presentation at the annual meeting of EMDR International Association, Minneapolis, MN.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Recent neuroscience research is discussed with a view towards increasing our understanding of underlying neurobiological processes with respect to the phenomenology of dissociation. It is suggested that dissociation is a result on a breakdown in cognitive-temporal binding (Crick & Koch, 2003), thus disrupting the linking of different neural networks in the time domain, e.g. information processing. It is suggested that this process is essential to our understanding both dissociation on one hand, as well as Adaptive Information Processing on the other. Please note: Part I (Session 332) and Part II (Session 432) each stand alone without prerequisite and are designed to complement each other. You do NOT have to take Part I to take Part II.
Keywords: Dissociation Embodied Self Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
70. Park, S.-C. (2011, February). Plasma levels of neurotrophic factors predict responses to eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in complex posttraumatic stress disorder. Hanyang University, Graduate School, Seoul, Korea.
Language: English
Format: Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract:
Complex PTSD is a proposed diagnosis that describes psychological sequelae of survivors with prolonged, repeated, and interpersonal trauma, including childhood physical abuse, incest, and other forms of family violence (Herman, 1992). The diagnostic criteria for complex PTSD are composed of the functional alterations in six areas: (1) regulation of affect and impulses; (2) attention or consciousness; (3) self-perception; (4) relations with others; (5) somatization; and (6) system of meaning (Pelcovitz et al., 1997). Recently, a morphometric study showed that patients with childhood abuse-related complex PTSD had more extensive involvements of neural substrates (reduced anterior cingulate and orbitofrontal volumes) than those with classical PTSD (Thomaes et al., 2009). Changes in the neural substrates of patients with complex PTSD may reflect the relationship, established in critical developmental phases, between traumatic experiences and neurobiological factors.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an integrative and comprehensive psychotherapy that contains various effective elements of psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and body-centered therapies (Shapiro and Maxfield, 2002). It was originally developed to resolve symptoms of psychic trauma, and has been shown to be highly effective in reducing the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Bradely et al., 2005; van der Kolk et al., 2007). It has been also proposed as a rapid and effective application for treating the core symptoms of complex PTSD (Korn and Leeds, 2002; Kim and Choi, 2004; Kim, 2003). Thus, the investigation of the effects of treatment of complex PTSD by EMDR may reveal aspects of neurobehavioral plasticity dependent on neurotrophic factors.
Keywords: Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Complex PTSD C-PTSD Neurotrophic Factors Plasma Levels
Accuracy Verified: Yes
71. Rothbaum, B. (2008, November). Predictors of treatment response for EMDR and prolonged exposure. Symposium/panel conducted at the 24th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Chicago, IL.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Recent developments in PTSD treatment
outcome research: Although cognitive behavior therapy is the treatment of choice for
PTSD, there is a need to develop more effective treatments and to
determine factors that influence treatment response. This
symposium presents four studies that address treatment outcome
research. The initial paper provides an overview of treatment
predictors from two trials of cognitive processing therapy. The
second paper reviews the differential responses to treatment of
survivors of terrorist attacks and motor vehicle accidents. The third
paper reviews predictors of outcome following EMDR and
Prolonged Exposure. The fourth paper overviews a series of
studies that have used structural and functional fMRI to identify the
neural factors that predict response to CBT and also the impact of
CBT on neural functioning.
Predictors of treatment response for EMDR and prolonged exposure: Predictors for response to treatment in a controlled study aimed to
evaluate the relative efficacy of Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Eye
Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) compared to
a no-treatment wait-list control (WAIT) in the treatment of PTSD in
adult female rape victims were examined. In this study, 74
participants with PTSD were randomly assigned to one of the three
experimental conditions to achieve 20 completers per group.
Independent Assessors blind to the treatment condition
administered standard measures of PTSD and related symptoms.
Improvement in PTSD, depression, dissociation, and state anxiety
was significantly greater in both PE and EMDR group than the
WAIT group. PE and EMDR did not differ significantly for change
from baseline to either post-treatment or 6-month follow up
measurement for any quantitative scale. EMDR subjects with 2 or
more comorbid diagnoses, however, improved significantly less
than all other active treatment subjects. At post-treatment and 6-
months, 95% and 94% of PE subjects and 75% and 74% EMDR
subjects no longer met DSM-IV PTSD criteria, respectively. At the
6-month follow-up assessment, 78% of those who received PE and
35% of those who received EMDR met criteria for good end state
functioning (p=.017).
Keywords: Panel Prolonged Exposure Symposium Treatment Response Predictors
Accuracy Verified: Yes
72. Monticelli, M. L. (2008, Novembre). Psicoterapia cognitivo costruttivista e EMDR integrati: verso un’evoluzione mente-corpo consapevole e collettiva [Cognitive constructivist EMDR integrated into development mind-body awareness and collective]. Poster presentato al Applicazioni Cliniche dell'EMDR Congresso Nazionale, Milano, Italia.
Language: Italian
Format: Conference
Abstract:
I limiti mentali autoimposti acquisiti da copioni familiari reiterati in età evolutiva e da modelli operativi interiori acquisiti dalle autorità societarie attraverso mezzi di comunicazione di massa e regole educativo-lavorative, inducono percentuali sempre più rilevanti della popolazione europea alla vulnerabilità psicopatologica. L’esordio delle sintomatologie psichiche e somatiche di varia entità, avviene già in fasi precoci, nella primissima infanzia e spesso già nelle fasi prenatali, e il limite di età tende percentualmente a essere sempre più sensibile fin dal primo mese di vita. In età scolare si manifestano situazioni comportamentali quali il cosiddetto “bullismo” e fenomeni con campionature rilevanti di sindromi ipercinetiche con deficit attentivo e disturbi del-l’apprendimento. In adolescenza il contesto si complica e gli attacchi di panico, le sindromi depressive e i disturbi alimentari psicogeni dilagano, fino all’esordio di disturbi post-traumatici da stress che si incrementano in seguito alle difficili scelte di orientamento universitario o lavorativo. La vulnerabilità dell’età adulta si manifesta con disturbi somatoformi di diversa natura, disturbi psicocardiologici, sindromi ansioso-depressive, attacchi di panico, disturbi di coppia e relazionali, per citare i più frequenti e limitandomi solo ad accennare l’esistenza della molteplicità di disturbi iatrogeni. In tali soggetti, la consapevolezza di essere indotti in stati di shock che incrementano molteplici disturbi somatoformi e psicopatologici è praticamente assente. Essi, come pazienti, si rivolgono agli specialisti in ambito sanitario con la convinzione, spesso indotta da propagande dei mass-media, che tutto sia solo genetico, e vada "curato" con farmaci per lunghi periodi se non per tutta la vita. Anche da parte degli operatori sanitari vi sono ampie aree di inadeguatezza metodologica: ad esempio, la gravidanza viene gestita come fosse una malattia, riducendo la donna partoriente a una paziente alla quale troppo facilmente si “consiglia” il parto cesareo (statisticamente tra i più frequenti in Italia!) come metodo “veloce e sicuro” di parto, togliendo la competenza materna dell’imprinting alla nascita del bambino con le conseguenze psicologiche che ne derivano per la relazione madre-bambino e per la crescita serena di quest’ultimo, e, sempre a titolo esemplificativo, ignorano quasi del tutto gli aspetti di psicocardiologia, e il loro intervento si riduce a esami medici invasivi e a somministrazione di farmaci. Eppure, la psicoterapia cognitiva costruttivista, e specificamente modelli teorici e tecniche strategiche specialistiche note come EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), l’utilizzo di biofeedback, l’innovativo training emotivo-cognitivo-comportamentale da me ideato nelle due versioni per la psicoterapia e per i gruppi in formazione che incrementa il riconoscimento emotivo e l’implementazione di immagini mentali idonee a modificare cognizioni e comportamenti irrazionali, quando eticamente e competentemente applicati, fanno molto per questi pazienti, sia in quanto si incrementa sensibilmente il livello della loro consapevolezza e della loro capacità di farsi protagonisti nel-l'evoluzione positiva della loro “guarigione”, sia in quanto si può intervenire in modo mirato con sperimentati protocolli per la risoluzione dello stato di trauma psichico in tempi ragionevolmente rapidi e con risultati attendibili e verificabili. Passando dalla dimensione individuale a quella collettiva, ossia alla psicopatologia collettiva cagionata dall’esposizione (anche solo mediatica) ad eventi catastrofici o angoscianti (magari associati a senso di impotenza, insicurezza, precarietà) o a diversi tipi di stress e vulnerabilità, possiamo aggiungere che, analogamente, mediante un lavoro su sistemi di neuroni specchio e sull'attivazione di nuove connessioni di reti neurali con un modello operativo non invasivo, si potrebbe migliorare la condizione di intere popolazioni rispetto a disturbi che, oggettivamente, sono in continua diffusione.
Sarebbe opportuno iniziare una sensibilizzazione collettiva partendo dalla formazione per livelli differenziati degli operatori educativi e sanitari, per poi estenderla alla popolazione suddividendola
per fasce di età e per territori di appartenenza; purtroppo la consapevolezza non è tra le aspettative primarie di committenti rivolti solo al profitto economico.
In un contesto storico-culturale dove l’etica, le relazioni umane, la cooperazione sembrano utopiche fiabe, questa è la sfida di essere una perturbatrice emotivamente orientata ad amplificare la consapevolezza attraverso un nuovo modello psicoterapeutico e formativo integrato, al quale sto lavorando da alcuni anni con risultati incoraggianti e che sarà mia premura esporre dettagliatamente durante il Congresso EMDR 2008.
The self-imposed mental limitations acquired from family scripts repeated age and developmental models inner acquired by the company operating through means of mass communication and
educational and working rules, induce percentage increasing as the population of Europe vulnerability to psychopathology. The onset of symptoms of various psychological and somatic
entity, is already in the early stages, in early childhood and often known during prenatal and age limit percentage tends to be more sensitive since the first month of life. Age
school behavioral situations occur where the so-called "bullying" and phenomena samples relevant syndromes of attention-deficit and hyperactive disorder - learning. In adolescence the context is complicated and panic attacks, the syndromes psychogenic depression and eating disorders are rampant, until onset of post-traumatic disorders stress which increases as a result of difficult choices of university or business orientation. The vulnerability of adulthood is manifested by different types of somatoform disorders, disorders psycho, anxious-depressive syndrome, panic attacks, disorders of torque and relational to cite the most frequent is limited only to mention the existence of multiplicity of disorders iatrogenic. In these subjects, conscious of being led into a state of shock that increase multiple somatoform disorders and psychopathology is virtually absent. They, like patients, addressed to specialists in the health field with the belief, often driven by propaganda media, that everything is just genetic, and must be "cured" with drugs for long periods if not for life. Including by health workers there are large areas of inadequacy
methodological: for example, pregnancy is managed as if it were a disease, reducing the woman in labor to a patient which too easily "advise" Caesarean (statistically the most frequent in Italy!) as a method of "fast and safe childbirth, removing the competence of imprinting the birth mother of the child with the psychological consequences that entailed for the mother-child and to the peaceful growth of the latter, and, also example, know little about the aspects of psycho, and their intervention reduces to invasive medical examinations and medication. Yet, cognitive psychotherapy
constructivist theoretical models and specific strategic and technical specialists known as EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), the use of biofeedback, the innovative
emotional-cognitive-behavioral training which I designed in two versions for psychotherapy and groups in training that increases the emotional recognition and implementation of
mental images likely to change, knowledge and irrational behavior, when ethically and competently applied, do a lot for these patients, both because it increases
significantly the level of their awareness and their ability to get players in - the positive development of their "healing", both as it can intervene in a targeted manner with
tested protocols for the resolution of the state of psychic trauma in the reasonably rapid and reliable and verifiable results. Moving from individual dimension to that
collective, that is caused by exposure to psychopathology group (even the media) to distressing or catastrophic event (perhaps associated with the sense of powerlessness, insecurity, instability) or
different types of stress and vulnerability, we can add that, similarly, through a work on systems of mirror neurons and activation of new connections of neural networks with a model
operating non-invasive, it could improve the condition of entire populations than disorders that, objectively, are in constant circulation. It would be appropriate to start a collective awareness levels, starting from training differential operators' education and health, then extend it to the population divides
by age and territories belonging unfortunately the awareness is not between the expectations primary principals addressed only in profit or loss. In a historical-cultural context where ethics, human relations, cooperation seem utopian fairy tales, this is the challenge of being an emotionally disturbing oriented to amplify the awareness through a new model of psychotherapy and integrated training, which I working for several years with encouraging results and that will spell out my readiness EMDR 2008 during the Congress.
Keywords: Mind-Body Awareness Poster
Accuracy Verified: Yes
73. Siegel, D. (2001, June). Psychotherapy and the resolution of trauma: Mental health and neural integration. Plenary at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Austin, TX.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This plenary will offer an overview of one perspective for understanding the human mind, the impact of trauma on development, and the role of psychotherapy in the resolution of traumatic impairments to mental health. By examining the fundamental interrelationships among mind, brain, and the interpersonal experience, this view provides a scientifically based foundation for understanding how various forms of traumatic and disorganizing interactions can produce incoherencies in how the mind achieves an integrated form of functioning fundamental to mental health. Effective psychotherapy of unresolved trauma can be seen to involve the facilitation of blockages to the crucial process of neural integration.
Keywords: Neurobiology Plenary
Accuracy Verified: Yes
74. McFarlane, A. (2010, June). PTSD as an information processing disorder. Keynote presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Posttraumatic stress disorder is a challenging condition, as people become captured by their past experiences and have difficulty engaging with the present. At the core of this condition is the role of traumatic memories, which orientate the individual's awareness and reactivity to reminders of the instigating traumatic event. The role of traumatic events has not been fully understood and grappled with in the full range of psychopathological conditions. This has important implications for the application of EMDR as a treatment for disorders above and beyond posttraumatic stress disorder.
However, the problems with information processing in PTSD go above and beyond the fear circuitry and reactivity to traumatic memories. Individuals with PTSD also have major difficulties with their self-orientation, which is reflected in deficits in default networks, the idling systems of the brain. These changes are indicative of problems in self-registration and free-floating reflection. Dissociative symptoms may relate to these abnormalities of individuals resting states as they reflect a sense of disconnection and integration of internal states into consciousness.
Secondly, posttraumatic stress disorder is associated with major problems in dealing with neutral environmental information. This is reflected in the symptoms of difficulty with concentration and emotional numbing. The underlying neurobiology of the working memory abnormalities in posttraumatic stress disorder will be highlighted. These studies show that, in PTSD, relatively simple attentional tasks recruit neural networks normally reserved for more demanding and higher order tasks. When confronted with more demanding challenges, individuals with PTSD do not have any further capacity to allocate to processing complex environments.
Individuals with PTSD also demonstrate a problem with switching their attentional focus from an idling to active state. The data suggests that they continue to use visio-spatial networks more than language-based systems for dealing with verbal tasks. This observation is in keeping with a broad body of literature, which suggests that there are problems with the processing of verbal memory tasks in PTSD. EMDR, as a treatment, may have an advantage, as it is not so dependent on verbal representations of traumatic experiences as other treatment approaches.
Finally, an important development in the field is a better understanding of the patterns of abnormal cortical arousal that accompany the peripheral arousal abnormalities in PTSD. Quantitative EEG has given insights into the instability of the cortical neural networks. Neurotherapy represents a treatment that can further assist clinicians in the management of these patients. It is important to consider the underlying psychosomatic aspects of posttraumatic stress disorder and ensure that treatment addresses these components as well the traumatic memories. Treatment should be thought of as a staged process where the processing of traumatic memories is only one component of a disorder that impacts on a range of information processing domains.
Keywords: Information Processing Keynote Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
75. Kinowski, K. (2003). Put your best foot forward. Clinical practice manual. An EMDR-related protocol for empowerment using somatosensory and visual priming of resource experiences (2nd Ed.). Victoria, BC: Author.
Language: English
Format: Other
Abstract:
The theory and how-to of the protocol are contained in a 153 page manual, 8 ½" x 11". The second edition updates the database and includes a new chapter with case reports from other therapists. The manual's contents include:
the full text protocol
enough practical information so you can knowledgeably use it if you wish
a simplified record form for the client's file
two new ratings scales: Subjective Units of Body Safety( SUBS) and Rating of Confidence (RoC)
theoretical discussion of midbrain areas that I think are activated by the process
13 tables of descriptive statistics, n= 40, 67 administrations of the protocol
stills taken from video of therapy sessions (with client permission, faces obscured)
colored illustrations of client imagery, key midbrain areas, and body diagrams summarizing different results
a 3 page table summarizing each of the protocol's eight stages from four operational factors - therapist mode of activity, information processing, somatosensory processing, and conjectured neural activation
more than 15 cases are described in whole or in part, 8 from other therapists
Keywords: Empowerment Protocol
Accuracy Verified: Yes
76. Parker, A., Buckley, S., & Dagnall, N. (2009, February). Reduced misinformation effects following saccadic bilateral eye movements. Brain and Cognition, 69(1), 89-97. doi:10.1016/j.bandc.2008.05.009.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
The effects of saccadic bilateral (horizontal) eye movements on memory for a visual event narrative were investigated. In the study phase, participants were exposed to a set of pictures accompanied by a verbal commentary describing the events depicted in the pictures. Next, the participants were asked either misleading or control questions about the depicted event and were then asked to engage in 30 s of bilateral vs. vertical vs. no eye movements. Finally, recognition memory was tested using the remember–know procedure. It was found that bilateral eye movements increased true memory for the event, increased recollection, and decreased the magnitude of the misinformation effect. The findings are discussed in terms of source monitoring, dual-process theories of memory and the potential neural foundations of such effects.
Keywords: Bilateral Eye Movements False Memory Hemispheric Interaction Misinformation Effects Source Memory
Accuracy Verified: Yes
77. Dworkin, M. (2002, June). Relational strategies in EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, San Diego, CA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract: Many memories, explicit and implicit, and their concomitant sensations, are stimulated intersubjectively, spontaneously, and continuously, forming a multiplicity of feedback loops from clinician's witting and unwitting participation in these processes. Transferential remarks may become sources of potential targeting, which may spontaneously bring the client back to old unfinished material. Somatomsensory countertransferential reactions may serve as sources of rich data to identify and work out blocks at a moment that a session seems to stall. The Relational Interweave, a relatively new intersubjective strategy, takes reactions of clinician and client into account and opens opportunities for new and more powerful links to positive neural networks enhancing the work. This workshop will teach rapid methods of identifying and sequencing and intervening in this intersubjective processes.
Keywords: Relational Interweave Relational Strategies
Accuracy Verified: Yes
78. Staff. (2007, November 19). Reports outline life sciences study findings from Merrimack College, Psychology Department. Biotech Business Week, Expanded Reporting, 1204.
Language: English
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
A new study, 'Effect of bilateral eye movements on frontal interhemispheric gamma EEG coherence: implications for EMDR therapy,' is now available (see also Life Sciences). "The use of bilateral eye movements (EMs) is an important component of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder. The neural mechanisms underlying EMDR remain unclear," scientists in the United States report.
Keywords: Research
Accuracy Verified: Yes
79. Hase, M. H., Popky, A. J., & Woffgramm, J. (2007, June). Reprocessing of the addiction memory. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Paris, France.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
A randomized pilot study demonstrated the efficacy of EMDR to reduce the craving in alcohol addicted in-patients (Hase, 2006). The rationale of this EMDR approach is based on the concept of the addiction memory (Woffgramm and Heyne, 1995; Heyne, May et al, 2000; Wolffgramm, Galli et al, 2000). The addiction memory qualifies as a maladaptive memory regarding to the Adaptive Information Processing Model. The DeTUR approach was introduced to reprocess triggers for abuse and to reduce the user to use a drug in 1998 (Popky, 1998; Popky, 2005). If differs slightly in it rationale. J. Wolffgramm established an animal model of addiction providing data to move towards the concept of memory of addiction (Wolffgramm, Galli et al, 200). A. J. Popky established the DeTUR approach. M. Hase conducted the randomized pilot study demonstrating the efficacy of EMDR in the treatment of alcohol addicts. Wolffgramm, Popky, and Hase will discuss research, theory, and practice of EMDR in the treatment of addictions representing the state of the art of EMDR addiction treatment.
Hase, M. (2006, September) EMDR applied to reprocess the addiction memory in alcohol addicted in-patients. Outcome and follow-up data of a clinical study, 2006 EMDRIA Conference, Philadelphia, PA.
Heyne, A., May, T. et al. (2000). "Persisting consequences of drug intake toward a memory of addiction," J. Neural Transm, 107(6), 613-638.
Popky, A. J. (1998). DeTUR, (Desensitization triggers and urge reprocessing). Monte Sereno, CA.
Popky, A. J. (2005). "DeTUR, an urge reduction. protocol for addictions and dysfunctional behaviors," in EMDR Solutions. R. Shapiro. New York: W. W. Norton, pp. 167-188.
Wolffgramm, J. G., Galli, G. et al. (2000). "Animal models of addiction: Models for therapeutic strategies." J. Neural Transm, 107(6), 649-668.
Wolffgramm, J., & Heyne, A. (1995). "From controlled drug intake to loss of control: The irreversible development of drug addiction in the rat." Behav Brain Res, 70(1), 77-94.
Keywords: Addiction
Accuracy Verified: Yes
80. Laliotis, D. (2008, March). Reshaping neural networks with EMDR: Part I & II. Presentation at the Psychotherapy Networker Annual Conference, Washington, DC.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Keywords: Neural Networks
Accuracy Verified: Yes
81. Hassard, A. (1996, October). Reverse learning and the physiological basis of eye movement desensitization. Medical Hypotheses, 47(4), 277-282. doi:10.1016/S0306-9877(96)90067-5.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization is a new and effective procedure for PTSD that requires explanation. Reverse learning is a model developed in artificial neural networks as a theoretical explanation of rapid-eye-movement sleep. It demonstrates that an overloaded node within a network can be consolidated with a series of non-specific activations. Rapid-eye-movement sleep is suspected to have a memory consolidation function. Ponto-geniculo-occipital spikes, which occur in rapid-eye-movement sleep, are a candidate for such activations in the real brain. In cats, the phasic functions of rapid-eye-movement sleep are driven by ponto-geniculo-occipital spikes, which are non-specific, at highest amplitude in the visual system but present in other parts of the cortex. Such spikes can be evoked by sensory events such as eye movements. There is evidence of similar events in the human brain. Induced eye movements could generate ponto-geniculo-occipital equivalent spikes and eye movement desensitization/reprocessing could be explained as a focused and artificial exploitation of the rapid-eye-movement sleep mechanism. This theory of eye movement desensitization/reprocessing enables some explanation of current results and may be relevant to other problems, such as stereotyped behaviour. [Author Abstract]
Keywords: Neurophysiology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Review Sleep Behavior
Accuracy Verified: Yes
82. Pena, M. (2006). Sanar el dolor a traves del movimiento ocular [Healing the pain through eye movement]. Buenos Aires: Kier.
Language: Spanish
Format: Book
Abstract:
Ningún Método aplicado por la medicina tradicional ha podido terminar con esta clase de sufrimiento. Hoy, gracias a la novedosa técnica EMDR (Movimientos Oculares de Desensibilización y Reprocesamiento), nos encontramos ante un nuevo paradigma terapéutico: la posibilidad real de terminar con el dolor.
Los recuerdos traumáticos se aíslan en el cerebro como resultado de los neuroquímicos producidos por el cuerto en el momento del trauma, que se almacenan sin asimilar durante años. El trabajo que se realiza a través del movimiento de los ojos desbloquea estos recuerdos reconectando las redes neuronales, antes aisladas del resto del cerebro, logrando así eliminar la sensación de dolor que el recuerdo genera en el paciente.
Las técnicas EMDR y T.I.C. (Técnicas de Integración Cerebral) se han utilizado con enorme éxito en personas que sufrieron graves traumas: asaltos, abusos sexuales, así como en soldados con secuelas de guerra (Guerra de los Balcanes en Sarajevo, Bosnia), en víctimas de ataques con bombas (Oklahoma, EE.UU), en pacientes con ataques de pánico y fobias. Es tratamiento de soldados con estrés de combate, víctimas de inundaciones y huracanes y en los sobrevivientes al ataque a las Torres Gemelas en Nueva York, EE.UU., en 2001.
La Lic. Marta Peña nos acerca en esta obra las bases y aplicaciones de las técnicas con ejemplos de exitosos casos clínicos reales.
No method used by traditional medicine has failed to finish with this kind of suffering. Today, thanks to the new technique EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), we face a new treatment paradigm: a real chance to end the pain.
Isolated traumatic memories in the brain as a result of neurochemicals produced by the cuerto at the time of trauma, which are stored for years without assimilating. The work done through eye movement unlock these memories reconnecting the neural network, previously isolated from the rest of the brain, thus eliminating the sensation of pain that the memories generated by the patient.
EMDR techniques and T.I.C. (Cerebral Integration Techniques) have been used with great success in people who suffered severe trauma: assaults, sexual abuse, as well as soldiers with sequelae of war (War in the Balkans in Sarajevo, Bosnia), victims of bombings ( Oklahoma, USA) in patients with panic attacks and phobias. It's treatment of soldiers with combat stress, flood and hurricane victims and survivors of the attack on the Twin Towers in New York, USA, in 2001.
Ms. Marta Peña us about this document the basis and applications of the techniques with examples of successful real clinical cases.
Accuracy Verified: Yes
83. Siegel, D. J. (2001, June). Toward an interpersonal neurobiology of the developing mind. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Austin, TX.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Expanding on the overview provided in the plenary, this day-long workshop will offer an in-depth exploration of the interdisciplinary findings that are the foundation for an "interpersonal neurobiology" approach to understanding development, subjective-experience, and psychotherapy. The topics covered will include: mind, brain, and experience, memory, attachment, emotion, mental representation and neural asymmetry, state of mind, self-regulation, interpersonal connections, and neural integration. The weaving of these ideas with discussion of the psychotherapeutic process throughout the workshop will reveal the practical applicaitons of this neurobiological view of the development and trauma.
Keywords: Neurobiology
Accuracy Verified: Yes
84. Rasolkhani-Kalhorn, T. (2009, November). Translation and adaptation of the EMDR protocol to the Iranian culture: A country study. VDM Verlag Dr. Müller e.K. pp. 108.
Language: Farsi (Iran)
Format: Book
Abstract:
Dr. Rasolkhani-Kalhorn produced a translation of the EMDR protocol in Farsi (Persian). In her dissertation she tells how she found psychologists in Iran to help with the translation, and to use the EMDR protocol in their field work in earthquake devastated regions of Iran. The psychologists also filled out a survey assessing the value of the translation, and use of EMDR in Iran. She considers the possible problems using the treatment in a foreign culture and shows how it could be incorporated through a country-wide effort to train EMDR therapists at the village level throughout Iran. The dissertation also includes a publication from the journal Traumatology outlining a theory of the neural basis of EMDR. This theory has since been proven correct through her research with two colleagues using EEG recordings of patients undergoing EMDR therapy.
Keywords: Empirical Study Eye Movements Quantitative Study Sociocultural Factors
Accuracy Verified: Yes
85. Siegel, D. J. (2004, June). Trauma and the mind: attachment, relationships, and neural integration. Plenary presented at the EMDR Europe Association annual meeting, Stockholm, Sweden .
Language: English
Format: Conference
Keywords: Attachment Neural Integration Plenary Relationships Trauma
Accuracy Verified: Yes
86. Perry, B. D. (2002, June). Traumatic memory and neurodevelopment: A proposed mechanism of action for EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, San Diego, CA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This presentation will provide an overview of the neurodevelopmental process of creating neural networks mediating various functions. A general understanding of those "memory" processes can provide a plausible mechanism to explain the efficacy of EMDR and other therapeutic approaches which use repetitive, rhythmic sensory stimulation and cognitive recall to treat the symptoms of trauma.
Keywords: Mechanism of Action Neural Networks Neurodevelopment
Accuracy Verified: Yes
87. McFarlane, A. (2010, June). Understanding traumatic stress reactions - The linking of phenomenology, aetiology and treatment plan. Preconference presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
One of the most intriguing aspects of traumatic stress has been the repeated learning and forgetting of lessons about its importance as a cause of psychopathology. It remains the case that the broader body of psychiatry and psychology has an ambivalent relationship with the field of traumatic stress and the nature of posttraumatic stress disorder. The origins of this ambivalence and their impact will be discussed. It is important that practitioners in the field of traumatic stress be aware of these barriers and how to address them in a research setting and clinical practice.
The underlying phenomenology of posttraumatic stress disorder will be explored and its neurobiological origins will be highlighted. It is important to deconstruct posttraumatic stress disorder into the different symptom components, as they have substantially different mechanisms underpinning their intensity and presentation. Posttraumatic stress disorder is a dynamic condition in which symptoms fluctuate with time and are substantially influenced by the environmental demands placed upon the individual.
It is often forgotten that somatic symptoms are a core element of the experience of individuals with PTSD. The nature of these somatic dimensions of distress and their significance will be discussed.
The epidemiology of posttraumatic stress disorder highlights how the prevalence of these conditions is seemingly increasing. However, this reflects the developments in the measurement of the effects of trauma in research settings. This has major implications for clinicians as to how best take a history about exposures to traumatic events. The evidence is that systematic investigation is critical and that unless questions are asked, symptoms will frequently go unreported. Recent evidence suggests that PTSD may be in fact more common than major depressive disorders. Equally, it should not be forgotten that depression is an important dimension of posttraumatic reactions. There is also an associated comorbidity with substance abuse. The risks associated with trauma exposure have a long tale of effect and these will be described.
The challenges of treatment will be discussed in the context of early intervention and workplace intervention. Treatment needs to be a sequential process where there are a variety of strategies, including EMDR, which can be used in treatment. The sequence of these strategies in treatment is a challenging question that has not been systematically addressed in research.
It remains the case that one of the primary issues in treatment is early identification, and this raises questions about the importance of screening in at-risk populations. Again, there are significant differences in opinion; however, the militaries around the world are now regularly screening populations returning from deployment. A recent novel approach to considering the issues of treatment is whether a staging approach should be used for conditions such as PTSD.
In summary, it is critical that clinicians have an explicit model of the mind and its neurobiology. Posttraumatic stress disorder can best be understood as an information processing disorder, which both impacts upon an individual's ability to engage with their day to day environment as well as integrate past experiences as a source of information to influence current behaviour. The integration and modulation of neural systems that manage environmental input is critical to adaptive functioning. The ways that these systems become dysregulated in PTSD will be highlighted and how these underlying deficits can be addressed in treatment will be focused upon.
A further issue that needs to be considered in the treatment of PTSD is the long-term risk of individuals, who have developed this condition, to have relapses after a successful intervention. Some long-term treatment outcome data will be presented.
Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Traumatic Stress
Accuracy Verified: Yes
88. Kreitzberg, J. (2011). Using magneto encephalography to determine the therapeutic efficacy of EMDR in the treatment of PTSD. Symposium presented at the Annual Linfield College Science Symposium.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can be produced by traumatic experiences. A new study has shown that a brain scan called magneto encephalography (MEG) can identify people who have PTSD with an accuracy of 95%. Sensors measure tiny magnetic fields generated by currents flowing in and around neurons. In addition they have recently stated in the Journal of Neural Engineering that they can now watch the brain as it experiences PTSD. Imaging shows that the brain becomes hyperactive in the right temporal lobe, the location responsible for memory. Besides diagnosing PTSD, the researchers also are able to judge the severity of how much patients are suffering. Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) was designed in 1987 as a treatment for PTSD. EMDR is a structured eight-phase therapy that allows for adequate reprocessing of dysfunctionally stored memory. In the processing phases the client attends to the disturbing memory in brief intervals of 15-30 seconds while also experiencing bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tones or tapping). The eight phases integrate effective elements of psychodynamic, imaginal exposure, cognitive therapy, interpersonal, experiential, physiological and somatic therapies. Now that we can locate specific biomarkers for PTSD using MEG, my hypothesis is that we will find a statistically significant difference between the control group and the group that has EMDR treatment, and that EMDR will be shown to be effective in resolving PTSD as measured by pre and post therapy MEG scans. Also using the MEG, we may be able to observe those brain actions responsible for the therapeutic efficacy of EMDR and isolate which components of EMDR trigger those brain actions. The significance of finding the answer to these questions could potentially help millions of people overcome years of suffering from psychological pain due to the after effects of severe trauma and restore them to productive lives. It could establish the status of EMDR, assisting in the decision of whether it should be listed among the evidence-based, best-practice therapy modalities and covered by insurance. Also knowing the underlying pathophysiology could contribute to the evolution, revision and refinement of diagnostic constructs for PTSD.
Keywords: Efficacy Magneto Encephalography Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment
Accuracy Verified: Yes
89. Figgess, S. (2009). Working with trauma. A journey towards integration: Gestalt and EMDR. British Gestalt Journal, 18(1), 34-41.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
This article explores points of convergence and divergence between EMDR and Gestalt in the context of one Gestalt therapist's experience in integrating EMDR and its derivatives into her practice. A longer case example illustrates the power of an EMDR-derived approach to facilitate a client's personal integration of traumatic material.
Keywords: Body Sensation Gestalt Inter-Psychic Intersubjective Neural Integration Self-Integration Unfinished Business
Accuracy Verified: Yes