Francine Shapiro Library ~ EMDR Bibliography

Francine Shapiro Library - EMDR Bibliography Links

Choose any combination of the search options below. If you do not wish to include an option in your search, leave the box blank, or select "Any."

Year:
Format:
Language:
Title of Article or Chapter:
Title of Book or Journal:
Author's Last Name:
Keywords:

Your Results - you searched for the keyword Psychophysiological Correlates 97 Results

1. Koshal, A. (2010, June). The 4-fields-technic in the traumatherapy of complex traumatized and drug-addicted people (in methadone-treatment). In Addictions. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Nowadays several international studies demonstrate that the problem of drug-addiction is very often found in combination with complex traumatization in early childhood and youth. (Felitti. 2903; Kufner et al. 2000; Langeland et al. 2006; Schmidt, 2000 etc.) As we all know PTSD and the other trauma symptoms cause a lot of psychophysical dysregulation. So the psychiatrist Khantrian postulated already 1985 the "self-medication hypothesis of addictive disorders". Janina Fisher, Trauma Center Boston, 2000, called this assumed combination of trauma-consequences and drug-addiction, "compensatory strategies aimed at self-regulation" In many years of working with drug-addicted people it became very obvious that a high percentage of this people are using drugs, for example to calm down after being aggressive, may be caused by an argue: or to reduce strong inner tensions; to sleep without nightmares, to alleviate the feeling of helplessness and fear etc. Drugs and alcohol do reduce all the mentioned symptoms for a while. To learn to cope in another, more adaptive way, the addicted people need to learn alternatives strategies for a good functioning self-regulation. After stabilization, the trauma therapy can start, so the patient can reduce some of the sources of psychophysiological dysregulation. Even when the addicted people still get methadone psychotherapy is possible. Practical experience over a long time. started 1990, did show a lot of successful treatments and that methadone does not interfere a traumatherapy. The 4-Fields-Technic is a special method of EMDR that was developed by Jarero et al. 1997 in Mexico after a hurricane disaster. Dorothee Lansch modified the group method into a therapy-setting for single persons. For complex traumatized and drug-addicted people this technic is very helpful. The focus is more easy to keep in mind, - in front of the eyes. In the 4-Fields-Technic the patient focuses on a self-painted picture, that represents the worst part of a trauma experience. The patient keeps his focus on this picture, combined with bilateral stimulation, till he feels the picture should be changed. And so the process is going on till finished. The participant will be able to learn: - about the correlation between complex trauma and drug-addiction - that drug-addicted people who get methadone are able to do trauma therapy -the 4-Fieids-Technic as a method to create resources. Psychotherapy and specially psychotraumatherapy with drug-addicted people who are as well in a methadone-treatment is for many therapists still controversial. This presentation will give you an idea how good it can work, based on various case series.

Keywords: 4-Fields-Technic Complex Trauma Drug Addiciton Methodone Treatment Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Autonomic Tone Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

4. Lupo, W., Plans, B., & Seijo, N. (2010, Abril). Aplicación de EMDR en el tratamiento del Trauma (PTSD) [EMDR in the application of trauma treatment (PSTD)]. In EMDR: Un abordaje integral de la personalidad traumatizada (Francisca García Guerrero, Coordinadora). Simposio realizado en el Congreso Internacional sobre Avances en Tratamientos Psicológicos, Granada, Spain .

Language: Spanish

Format: Conference

Abstract:
EMDR es un modelo de terapia, que se basa en el procesamiento adaptativo de la información (AIP). Además de desensibilizar, se trata de transformar la memoria afectada por el trauma, en la que las experiencias disfuncionales queden definitivamente en el pasado e integrarlas al presente de una forma adaptativa. En el trastorno de estrés postraumático y en el DESNOS, encontramos una memoria fragmentada, con un alto nivel de activación psicofisiológica, una dificultad en regular los afectos y con los síntomas intrusivos y evitativos vinculados a las experiencias. El procedimiento de EMDR, consta de 8 fases y mostraremos su aplicación en la presentación de un caso clínico de Trastorno de Estrés Postraumático.

EMDR therapy is a model that is based on adaptive processing information (AIP). Desensitize addition, it is transformed memory affected by trauma, which experiences dysfunctional are definitely in the past to the present and integrate adaptive way. In posttraumatic stress disorder and in the DESNOS, found a fragmented memory, with a high level of activation psychophysiological a difficulty in regulating emotions and intrusive and avoidant symptoms linked to experiences. The EMDR procedure consists of eight phases and show its application in presenting a case of PTSD.

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment

Accuracy Verified: Yes

5. Lupo, W., Plans, B., & Seijo, N. (2010, Abril). Aplicación de EMDR en el tratamiento del Trauma (PTSD) [EMDR in the application of trauma treatment (PSTD)]. In EMDR: Un abordaje integral de la personalidad traumatizada (Francisca García Guerrero, Coordinadora). Simposio realizado en el Congreso Internacional sobre Avances en Tratamientos Psicológicos, Granada, Spain .

Language: Spanish

Format: Conference

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Treatment

Accuracy Verified: Yes

6. MacCulloch, M., & Barrowcliff, A. (2001, May). Are EMDR effects caused by de-arousal?. Presentation at the EMDR Europe Association annual meeting, London, UK .

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is increasingly being recognised as a coherent therapeutic procedure in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders, yet we still do not fully understand by which process or mechanisms it might work. We consider a number of models implicating orienting or investigatory reflexes as a significant contributor to the success of EMDR as a treatment method. A series of experiments were designed to test the predictions derived from these models, examining the physiological effects of eye-movements following auditory challenge compared to an eyes-stationary condition. A significant physiological de-arousal effect is observed in conditions requiring eye-movements similar to those used in the EMDR protocol. We go on to consider the implications for this de-arousal effect in the treatment of PTSD and present preliminary data from a case series designed to examine the unique contribution of EMDR when used with treatment resistant clients. A range of psychometric and psychophysiological process and outcome measures were utilised in this study, providing a detailed evaluation of change over the course of the treatment design. Specialised software was developed for use in this study, in addition to a computerised test and software is provided, along with data obtained from this test.

Keywords: De-Arousal

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Newsletter

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

Keywords: Autonomic Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

9. Falaschi, R., & Tizzani, E. (2001, October). Changes in electroencephalographic quantitative analysis in patients treated with EMDR. In International CIANS Conference (CIANS: Collegium Internationale Activitatis Nervosae Superioris; International Association for Integrative Nervous Functions, Neurobiology of behaviour and Psychosomatics), (p 159) Palermo.

Language: English

Format: Other

Abstract:
EMDR’s basic working theory assumes that traumatic memories remain unprocessed because the innate information processing system is stuck by the psychophysiological effects of trauma. Traumatic events are stored in their original form, and the recall of traumatic memories causes a high level of disturbance.
Left-right rhythmic stimulations of EMDR seem to remove the block in the traumatic memories processing and help memories storing mechanism function at an adaptive level. In recent years, many scientific researches have focused on the opportunity to assess the functional connection between different brain areas through quantitative analysis of EEG.
According to the aim of this presentation, our attention was drawn to the correlation between slow bands (4- 7 Hz) and the activity in the sub-cortical areas involved in working memory and, also, high frequency ranges (> 36 Hz) and cortical activities during sensorial stimuli processing. There are a few quantitative EEG studies on patients with PTSD. The EEG analysis of subject with childhood abuse histories revealed less synchronization in the two hemispheres functioning compared to normal control subjects.
EEG quantitative analysis in abused children showed a higher intra-hemispheric left coherence and a lower intra-hemispheric right coherence in comparison with normal control subjects. According to these results, the aim of this presentation is to test if there are recordable changes in the intra and inter hemispheric synchronization between brain areas where information processing occurs (limbic system, prefrontal cortical area, and posterior cortical areas) in patients with PTSD after EMDR treatment.

Keywords: EEG Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

11. Leeds, A. M., & Korn, D. L. (1998, July). Clinical applications of EMDR in the treatment of adult survivors of childhood abuse and neglect. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Baltimore, MD.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This paper was co-presented with with Deborah L. Korn, Psy.D. In my portion of this presentation I introduced Alan Schore's research on the neurobiological correlates of early trauma and abuse and with implications for treatment stragegy. The presentation covered the use of EMDR, Resource Development and Resource Installation methods across the entire treatment plan. Dr. Korn reviewed treatment principles and adaptations to the EMDR trauma protocol for this population.[Author abstract] Participants will learn how to: 1) apply specific EMDR protocols in each of the three strategies of recovery: stabilization and safety, trauma focused processing, and reconnection and identify development; 2) integrate ego strengthening strategies into a comprehensive EMDR based treatment plan for clients who have limited affect tolerance and self-capacities; 3) apply cognitive interweave strategies to address blocking beliefs and fears about the treatment process; and 4) use EMDR to address maladaptive schemas commonly seen in this population.[Conference Program Abstract]

Keywords: Adults Neglect Sexual Abuse Survivors

Accuracy Verified: Yes

12. Williams, K. (2006, August). A comparative experimental treatment outcome study: Female survivors of sexual assault suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and trauma-related guilt – self-report and psychophysiological measures. Trinity Western University, Langley, British Columbia, CAN.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Diverse psychotherapeutic approaches for treating trauma-related sequelae have emerged over the last several decades in response to the widespread prevalence of sexual assault and resultant posttraumatic stress disorder among women (PTSD). In a recent formal study (Grace, 2003), a newer treatment called one eye integration (OEI) has been shown to be effective for traumatized individuals. The purpose of this study was to build upon those findings by comparing the effectiveness of two treatments for reducing PTSD symptoms with a breathing, relaxation, autogenics, imagery, and grounding (BRAIN) control condition. Twenty-seven female rape or sexual assault survivors who met the criteria for PTSD according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Text-Revision, (DSM-IV-TR; APA, 2000) were randomly assigned to three groups: (a) a neurologically-based therapy called OEI, (b) an information processing model referred to as cognitive processing therapy-revised (CPT-R), or (c) a control condition (BRAIN), PTSD, depression, and trauma-related guilt symptoms were assessed pretreatment, posttreatment and at 3-month follow up, and qualitative electroencephalography (qEEG) brainwave patterns of two regions of the scalp (frontal and parietal) were measured pre and posttreatment. The following dependent measures were used: Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II), and t he Trauma-Related Guilt Inventory (TRGI). Though there were no significant differences in PTSD symptoms between groups from pretreatment to post treatment assessments, a significant difference occurred between pretreatment and 3-month follow up, with OEI manifesting greater reductions than CPT-R or BRAIN. There were no significant differences between groups in depression, but there was a reduction in BDI-II scores over time. Reduction in guilt-related symptoms occurred on several scales and subscales for all three groups over time from pretreatment of posttreatment assessments, though not significantly by group. A significant difference was found for the Global Guilt subscale at 3-month follow up, with greater improvement for the OEI group. Preliminary results from cortical brain activity assessments indicate typical qEEG asymmetry patterns for PTSD and depression, though there were no significant group differences apart from minor post hoc analyses. Implications of these findings for clinical work and directions for future research were discussed.

Keywords: Depression Female Guilt Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Sexual Assault Survivors

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Combat Controlled Treatment Outcome Study Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

14. Pagani, M., Högberg, G., Fernandez, I., & Siracusano, A. (2013). Correlates of EMDR therapy in functional and structural neuroimaging: A critical summary of recent findings. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 7(1), 29-38. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.7.1.29.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Neuroimaging investigations of the effects of psychotherapies treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), have reported findings consistent with modifications in cerebral blood flow (CBF; single photon emission computed tomography [SPECT]), in neuronal volume and density (magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]), and more recently in brain electric signal (electroencephalography [EEG]). Additionally in the recent past, EMDR- related neurobiological changes were monitored by EEG during therapy itself and showed a shift of the maximal activation from emotional limbic to cortical cognitive brain regions. This was the first time in which neurobiological changes occurring during any psychotherapy session have been reported, making EMDR the first psychotherapy with a proven neurobiological effect. The purpose of this article was to review the results of functional and structural changes taking place at PTSD treatment and presented during the period of 1999–2012 by various research groups. The reported pathophysiological changes are presented by neuropsychological technique and implemented methodology and critically analyzed.

Keywords: EEG Limbic System MRI Neurobiology SPECT

Accuracy Verified: Yes

15. van der Kolk, B. A., & Stickgold, R. (1998, July). Current understanding of the psychobiology of trauma. Plenary presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Baltimore, MD.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Participants will have basic knowledge about 1) the variety of psychophysiological responses to trauma; 2) current status of our knowledge about how the shutting off of the trauma response is mediated on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and the abnormalities of this biological system in PTSD; 3) basic understanding about the functions of different parts of the brain, in particular, the structure; and 4) explorations into possible modes of action of EMDR.

Keywords: Plenary Psychobiology

Accuracy Verified: Yes

16. van Eijk, M. & ter Braak, A. (2008, Maart). De noodkreet van het lijf: Het lichaam spreekt [The cry of the body: The body speaks]. Presentatie aan de derde congres van de Vereniging EMDR Nederland, Ede, The Netherlands.

Language: Dutch

Format: Conference

Abstract:
De gevolgen van psychotrauma manifesteren zich in de meeste gevallen in de vorm van herbelevingen, vermijding, emotionele ontregeling, concentratiestoornissen en dergelijke. Lichamelijke klachten worden inmiddels ook steeds vaker herkend als een van de gevolgen van PTSS. In deze workshop wordt naast aandacht voor de theoretische achtergrond van psychofysiologische reacties, ingegaan op wat men als EMDR- therapeut in de praktijk kan tegenkomen: dit kan variëren van selectief mutisme tot stigmata en van verlammingsverschijnselen tot visus uitval. Een en ander wordt geïllustreerd aan de hand van voorbeelden en videomateriaal.

The effects of psychotrauma manifest themselves in most cases in the form of reexperiencing, avoidance, emotional disturbance, impaired concentration and the like. Physical symptoms are also now increasingly being recognized as one of the effects of PTSD. This workshop will next focus on the theoretical background of psycho-physiological responses, discuss what they like EMDR therapist in practice may encounter: this may range from selective mutism to stigmata and paralysis to vision loss. This is illustrated by examples and video material.

Keywords: Body Psychophysiological Responses Somatic

Accuracy Verified: Yes

17. Hopper, J., Spinazzola, J., Blaustein, M., Yehuda, R., van der Kolk, B. A., & Simpson, W. (2003, October-November). Differential biological outcomes of EMDR and fluoxetine for PTSD. In B. A. van der Kolk (Chair), Treatment outcome studies of PTSD. Symposium conducted at the 19th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Chicago, IL.

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Differential Biological Outcomes of EMDR and Fluoxetine for PTSD: Two major developments in PTSD research have been the development of effective treatments and the delineation of pathophysiology. While major gains have been made in both of these areas, they have occurred in parallel. There is a need for investigations of possible differential effects of different treatment modalities on biological aspects of PTSD. In this randomized controlled trial (N = 105), we compared the exposure treatment Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, the serotonergic reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine, and pill placebo for their effects on both PTSD symptoms and biological parameters. The outcome measures were severity of reexperiencing, avoidant/numbing, and hyperarousal symptoms; psychophysiological reactivity to script-driven imagery; basal salivary cortisol and dexamethasone suppression test (DST). At pre-treatment, post-treatment and 3-month follow-up, saliva samples were acquired at 8 a.m., 11 p.m. (immediately followed by dexamethasone) and 8 a.m.. Participants also underwent a script-driven imagery protocol utilizing four 30s scripts, each followed by a 60s script imaging period and 2 minute recovery periods (fixed order: neutral, trauma, neutral, trauma). Preliminary analyses partially support hypothesizes concerning differential efficacies of pharmacological and psychological treatments on different symptom clusters and biological markers of the disorder, at post-treatment and 3- month follow-up. Potential implications for treatment and future research will be discussed.

Keywords: Fluoxetine Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: Korean

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

19. Khalfa, S. (2012, June). Effects of EMDR on cognition, psychophysiology and cerebral mechanisms in PTSD [Efectos del EMDR en cognición, psicofisiología y mecanismos cerebrales en TEPT]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Madrid, Spain.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Despite the emergence of many theories on biological EMDR mechanisms, research is still needed to understand the healing processes of EMDR. We conducted four experiments to explore the effects of EMDR on PTSD with 17 to 22 patients suffering from one unique trauma. The first experiment evidenced attentional bias in PTSD towards negative words that disappeared after successful EMDR Therapy. The second experiment has shown a less efficient control of emotion in PTSD as compared to healthy controls. This altered emotional suppressing measured through psychophysiological responses was restored after symptoms disappearance following EMDR. The third experiment also using psychophysiological measures confirmed the increased fear sensitization and delayed fear extinction in PTSD and again the restoration of a normal fear conditioning and extinction processes after EMDR. The last experiment explored the negative emotional cerebral mechanisms using functional magnetic resonance imagery in PTSD. Activities in prefrontal structures were modified in PTSD as compared to healthy controls. After the EMDR treatment accompanied by symptoms removal, the prefrontal responses were not different between PTSD patients and their controls. Theoretical issues of these results will be discussed in order to integrate cognitive, psychophysiological and cerebral mechanisms observations.

A pesar del emerger de muchas teorías sobre los mecanismos biológicos del EMDR, la investigación aún necesita entender el proceso de curación que se produce en EMDR. Hemos realizado 4 experimentos para explorar los efectos del EMDR en TEPT de 17 a 22 pacientes que sufrieron un único trauma. El primer experimento evidencia un sesgo atencional del TEPT ante las palabras negativas que desaparecen después de una terapia exitosa de EMDR. El Segundo experimento mostró una baja eficiencia del control de las emociones en los TEPT comparados con el control de individuos sanos. Esta alterada supresión emocional medida a través de respuestas psicofisiológicas fue restaurada después de una desaparición de los síntomas realizando EMDR. El tercer experimento también confirma mediante medidas psicofisiológicas el aumento de la sensación de miedo y un retraso en la extinción del mismo en el TEPT. De nuevo tras administrar una terapia EMDR se produjo una restauración a una condición normal de miedo y un proceso de extinción. El último experimento explica los mecanismos negativos emocionales cerebrales usando resonancia funcional magnética en TEPT. La actividad en las estructuras prefrontales fue modificada en el TEPT comparado con el control. Después del tratamiento de EMDR acompañado de una remisión de los síntomas, las respuestas prefrontales no fueron diferentes entre los pacientes con TEPT y los controles. Cuestiones teoréticas sobre estos resultados serán discutidas con el fin de integrar cognitivamente, psicofisiológicamente y observar los mecanismos cerebrales del EMDR.

Keywords: Cognition, Psychophysiology and Cerebral Mechanisms Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

Keywords: Horitzontal Eye Movements

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Dual Attention Poster Physiological Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Dual Attention Psychophysiological Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

23. Schubert, S. (2009, June). The efficacy and psychophysiological correlates of different dual attention tasks in EMDR. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: Dual Attention Poster

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

Keywords: Eye Movements Autobiographical Memory Psychophysiology Orienting Response

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

Keywords: Combat Electrophysiological Change Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

26. Kapoula, Z. (2010, April). EMDR effects on pursuit eye movements. In Research. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Hamburg, Germany.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This study aimed to objectivize the quality of smooth pursuit eye movements in a standard laboratory task before and after Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) session. EMDR was applied on subject’s autobiographic worries causing moderate distress. The EMDR session was complete in 5 out of 7 cases; distress measured by SUDS (Subjective Units of Disturbance scale) decreased to near zero value. Smooth pursuit eye movement was recorded by Eyelink II video system before and after EMDR. For these five subjects, pursuit eye movement improved after EMDR session, namely the number of CUS (Catch-up saccades) decreased and reciprocally, the gain of the smooth components of the pursuit increased. Such improvement of the smoothness of the pursuit presumably reflects better employment of visual attention needed to follow the target accurately. Perhaps EMDR reducing distress activates a cholinergic effect known to improve ocular pursuit. This approach is novel, Eye movement semiology is known to be a great tool for exploring brain function and plasticity. This preliminary study might be a starting point for further studies of other types of eye movements bringing together neuroscience and psychotherapy. Learning objectives: Learn the physiologic correlates of EMDR. During EMDR practice observation of the quality of eye movement (smooth and saccadic) can provide to the practitioner valuable, non-verbal feedback. EMDR can stimulate different types of research, including laboratory research.

Keywords: Eye Movements Research Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Combat Controlled Study

Accuracy Verified: Yes

28. Higa, M., & Tsuda, A. (2005, September). EMDR treatment and psychophysiological changes: A preliminary study. Poster presented at the annual meeting of EMDR International Association, Seattle, WA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: Poster Psychophysiological Change

Accuracy Verified: Yes

29. Gunter, R. W., & Bodner, G. E. (2009). EMDR works . . . But how? Recent progress in the search for treatment mechanisms. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 3(3), 161-168. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.3.3.161.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly scrutinized but efficacious psychotherapy commonly used in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. Despite much theorizing and speculation, EMDR's mechanism of action remains unspecified. This article reviews several accounts of how EMDR works to reduce symptoms and/or aid memory reprocessing, including disruption of a traumatic recollection in working memory, increased psychological distance from the trauma, enhanced communication between brain hemispheres, and psychophysiological changes associated with relaxation or evocation of a rapid-eye-movement-like brain state. Several gaps in knowledge are also identified: The working memory account has received considerable support but has yet to be evaluated using clinical samples. How psychological distancing translates into symptomatic improvement is unclear. Psychophysiological effects of EMDR are well demonstrated but leave open the question of whether they constitute a treatment mechanism or an outcome of memory processing. Multiple mechanisms may work to produce treatment gains in EMDR; hence, an integrative model may be necessary to capture its myriad effects.

Keywords: Eye Movements Psychotherapy Treatment Mechanism

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Rehabilitation Multidisciplinarian Program

Accuracy Verified: Yes

31. 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

32. 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

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

Language: German

Format: Conference

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

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

Keywords: Mechanism of Action

Accuracy Verified: Yes

34. Doering, S., Bisping, V., Nora Liebergesell, N., Hoffkes, B., Junghofer, M., & Dobel, C. (2012). Erfassung neurobiologischer orrelate der EMDR-behandlung bei patienten mit zahnbehandlungsangst [Detection of neurobiological correlates of EMDR treatment in patients with dental anxiety]. Universitätsklinikum Münster, Kliniken, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Forschung, Munster, Deutschland.

Language: German

Format: Other

Abstract:
Im Rahmen des zuvor dargestellten Projektes werden die Patienten vor und nach der EMDR-Intervention mit einer Magnetencephalografie (MEG) untersucht. Dabei soll erfasst werden, ob die erwarteten angstassoziierten kortikalen Aktivierungen nach der EMDR-Behandlung zurückgehen. Als Angst auslösende Stimuli werden im MEG Bilder, Geräusche und Gerüche dargeboten werden, die in Zusammenhang mit der Zahnbehandlung stehen.

As part of the [Wirksamkeit des Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) bei Patienten mit Zahnbehandlungsphobie, (Doering, Bisping, Bohnke)] project a Magnetencephalografie (MEG) will be presented before the patients were examined before and after the EMDR intervention. It should be recognized that the expected angst associated cortical activations to go back to the EMDR treatment. As fear-inducing stimuli in the MEG images, sounds and smells will be presented, which are associated with dental treatment.

The purpose of this study is to find out whether Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is effective in the treatment of patients with dental phobia. This U.S. National Institues of Health Clinical trial has been completed. (U.S. National Institutes of Health ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01207960)

Keywords: Dental Phobia

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

36. Kreyer, A. K. (2008). Experimentelle Überprüfung psychophysiologischer prozesse im EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) - Ein beitrag zur psychotherapeutischen grundlagenforschung [Experimental verification of psychophysiological processes in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) - A contribution to psychotherapy research]. Köln, Universität, Internet-Ressource.

Language: German

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Spätestens am Ende des 19. Jahrhunderts kam – damals in psychiatrischen Kreisen – die Vermutung auf, dass starke seelische Verletzungen zu speziellen Symptomkomplexen führen, welche zunächst unter der Kategorie Hysterie klassifiziert wurden (vgl. van der Kolk, Weisaeth & van der Hart, 1996/2000). Ein Jahrhundert psychotherapeutischer Erfahrungen und Forschungsbemühungen – sowohl im Zusammenhang mit den Folgen beider Weltkriege und des Vietnamkrieges als auch mit der Frauenrechtsbewegung, welche auf Gewalt gegen Frauen aufmerksam machte – verdichteten diese Vermutung. Aber es sollte noch bis 1980 dauern, bis die Posttraumatische Belastungsstörung (PTBS) als offizielle Diagnose in der psychiatrischen Nomenklatur anerkannt wurde (vgl. van der Kolk, McFarlane & Weisaeth, 1996/2000).

By the end of the 19th Century was - at that time in psychiatric circles - on the presumption that strong psychological injury on specific symptom complexes, which were initially classified under the category of hysteria (van der Kolk, Weisaeth & van der Hart, 1996/2000). A century of psychotherapy experience and research efforts - both in connection with the effects of both World Wars and the Vietnam War and with the women's rights movement, which called attention to violence against women compacted - this assumption. But it would take until 1980 until the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as an official diagnosis in the psychiatric nomenclature has been recognized (van der Kolk, McFarlane & Weisaeth, 1996/2000).

Keywords: Psychophysiological Processes

Accuracy Verified: Yes

37. Bryant, R. A., Harvey, A. G., Gordon, E., & Barry, R. (1995). Eye movement and electrodermal responses to threat stimuli in post-traumatic stress disorder. International Journal of Psychophysiology, 20(3), 209-213. doi:10.1016/0167-8760(95)00036-4.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
A core feature of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is hypervigilence to threatening material. This study measured processing of threat material in PTSD with simultaneously acquired initial eye movements and electrodermal activity, following presentation of threatening and neutral words. Ten PTSD subjects and 10 controls were presented with 4 words in parafoveal range. On trials in which a threat word was present, PTSD subjects demonstrated initial eye fixations on the threat word more than controls. PTSD subjects also demonstrated more orienting responses on all trials than controls. These results suggest that processing of threat information in PTSD can be usefully investigated with convergent psychophysiological methodologies.

Keywords: Electrodermal Responses Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

38. Carlson, J. G., Chemtob, C. M., Rusnak, K., Hedlund, N.L., & Muraoka, M. Y. (1998, January). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) treatment for combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 11(1), 3-24. doi:10.1023/A:1024448814268.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Despite the clinical and social impact of PTSD, there are few controlled studies investigating its treatment. In this investigation, the effectiveness of two psychotherapeutic interventions for PTSD were compared using a randomized controlled outcome group design. 35 combat veterans diagnosed with combat-related PTSD were treated with either (a) 12 sessions of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, EMDR (n = 10), (b) 12 sessions of biofeedback-assisted relaxation (n = 13), or (c) routine clinical care, serving as a control (n = 12). Compared with the other conditions, significant treatment effects in the EMDR condition were obtained at posttreatment on a number of self-report, psychometric, and standardized interview measures. Relative to the other treatment group, these effects were generally maintained at 3-month follow-up. Psychophysiological measures reflected an apparent habituation effect from pretreatment to posttreatment but were not differentially affected by treatment condition. [Author Summary]

Keywords: Adults Americans Arousal Biofeedback Training Males Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Random Clinical Trial RCT Relaxation Therapy Treatment Effectiveness Veterans War

Accuracy Verified: Yes

39. Shapiro, F., & Maxfield, L. (2001). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): Clinical implications of an integrated psychotherapy treatment. Directions in Clinical and Counseling Psychology, 11(6), 59-71.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Directions in Clinical and Counseling Psychology: A collection of 12 lessons, this volume covers a wide range of concerns in mental health counseling. The lessons, which may be applied toward continuing education credits, are: (1) "Perspectives on the Essentials of Clinical Supervision" (Stephen A. Anderson); (2) "Adlerian Group Psychotherapy: A Brief Therapy Approach" (Manford A. Sonstegard, James Robert Bitter, Pari Peggy Pelonis-Peneros, and William G. Nicholl); (3) "Substance Abuse Treatment for Pregnant and Parenting Women" (Rivka Greenberg, Judith Fry McComish, and Jennifer Kent-Bryant); (4) "Family Therapy for with Lesbians and Gay Men" (Maeve Malley and Fiona Tasker); (5) "Psychological and Cognitive Correlates of Coping by Patients with Multiple Sclerosis" (William W. Beatty and Brian T. Maynard); (6) "Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Clinical Implications of an Integrated Psychotherapy Treatment" (Francine Shapiro and Louise Maxfield); (7) "Counseling Strategies with Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse" (Kathleen M. Palm and Victoria M. Follete); (8) "Identifying and Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder" (Dean McKay); (9) "Masochistic Phenomena Reconceptualized as a Response to Trauma: Recovery and Treatment" (Elizabeth Howell); (10) "Counseling Poor, Abused, and Neglected Children in Fair Society" (Brenda Geiger); (11) "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Assessing Symptoms and Activity Levels for Treatment" (Constance W. Van der Eb and Leonard A. Jason); (12) "The Limitations of the DSM-IV as a Diagnostic Tool" (G. J. Tucker); and (Special Report) Jealousy, Communication, and Attachment Style (Laura K. Guerrero). Each lesson contains references. (ERIC ED464 291)

Keywords: Integrative Psychotherapy Approach

Accuracy Verified: Yes

40. Wilson, D., Silver, S., Covi, W., & Foster, S. (1993, April). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and ANS correlates in the treatment of PTSD. Presentation at the California Psychological Association Annual Conference, San Francisco, CA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: ANS Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

41. Wilson, D., Silver, S., Covi, W., & Foster, S.- (1995, May). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and ANS correlates in the treatment of PTSD. Presentation at the 148th annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, Miami, FL.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: ANS Correlates Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: No

42. Wilson, D. L., Covi, W. G., & Foster, S. (1993, March). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Effectiveness and autonomic correlates. Presentation at the EMDR Network Conference, Sunnyvale, CA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: Autonomic Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

44. Barrowcliff, A. L., Gray, N. S., Freeman, T. C. A., & MacCulloch, M. J. (2004, June). Eye-movements reduce the vividness, emotional valence and electrodermal arousal associated with negative autobiographical memories. Journal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology, 15(2), 325–345. doi:10.1080/14789940410001673042.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
The aim of this study was to examine the effect of eyemovements on subjective and psychophysiological measures of arousal and distress associated with positive and negative autobiographical memories. These memories were ‘brought-to-mind’ whilst engaging in eye-movement or eyes-stationary conditions in a counterbalanced within subjects design, with pre and post eye-condition subjective ratings of emotional valence and image vividness. Participants also rated current symptomatology associated with negative memories using the Impact of Events Scale. Engagement in eye-movements compared to the eyes-stationary condition resulted in significant reductions on measures of vividness and emotional valence for both positive and negative autobiographical memories. Reductions in electrodermal arousal were only observed when engaging in eye-movements following elicitation of the negative memory. This effect was observed independently of symptom severity.

Keywords: Eye Movements

Accuracy Verified: Yes

45. Phillips, M. (2000). Finding the energy to heal: How EMDR, hypnosis, TFT, imagery, and body-focused therapy can help restore mindbody health. (1st ed.) New York: Norton.

Language: English

Format: Book

Abstract:
I have found that more traditional models of psychological healing, such as self-object relations, ego psychology, cognitive behaviorism, and developmental psychology, along with theories of trauma, dissociation, and attachment, are invaluable in helping to identify the general patterns of disharmony that can activate illness. Once my clients and I have sketched the broad outlines of where and how their pathways to healing may be blocked, then we can use the relatively more precise implements of hypnosis, EMDR, imagery, and body-focused therapies to reopen them again. The basic strategy illustrated throughout this book, then, is one of combining traditional psychological models for assessment with special tools to activate energy shifts that can rebalance the mindbody system.Three kinds of common stressors associated with problematic health provide the framework for this book: (1) General stress-related symptoms; (2) Psychophysiological symptoms that result from posttraumatic stress; (3) Stress connected with organic conditions. [Adapted from Text, pp. xiv, xv] [Pilots]

Keywords: Body Psychotherapy Cognitive Therapy Ego State Therapy Hypnotherapy Stressors Survivors TFT: Thought Field Therapy

Accuracy Verified: Yes

46. van der Kolk, B. A., Spinazolla, J., & Hopper, J. (2000, November). Fluoxetine vs. prozac in PTSD: Preliminary analysis of psychological and psychophysiological changes following effective treatment. In B. A. van der Kolk (Chair), Current Research on EMDR. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the International Society for the Study of Traumatic Stress, San Antonio, TX.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: Fluxotine Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Prozac PTSD Research Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

47. Shapiro, S., & Abbott, G. (2004, September). Four methods of target selection for EMDR treatment. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Montreal, Quebec Canada.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Research indicates that adherence to all Eight Phases of EMDR correlates with improved therapeutic results. The Adaptive Information Processing Model contributes to our understanding of this finding. The focus of this workshop will be on the EMDR Phase One imperative of comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning prior to reprocessing. Participant will review 4 strategies for selecting and ordering targets for reprocessing: 1) Shapiro’s "ten most disturbing memories"; 2) A time line method: 3) Kitchur's genogram approach: and 4) hypnotic age-regression strategy inspired by Milton Erickson. The presenters will analyze each strategy, emphasizing its unique strengths, limitations, and vulnerabilities. Participants will engage in interactive exercises.

Keywords: Target Selection

Accuracy Verified: Yes

48. 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

49. Unger, M. A. (2008). Fysiologiska korrelat av ögonrörelser och emotionell exponering hos friska individer: – En experimentundersökning av mekanismer i Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) [Physiological correlates of eye movements and emotional exposure in healthy subjects - An experimental study of the mechanisms of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)]. Psykologexamensuppats, Stockholms Universersit, Psyckologiska Institutionen.

Language: Swedish

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR, har i psykoterapiforskning visats vara en effektiv behandlingsmetod av posttraumatiskt stressyndrom, PTSD. Däremot är ögonrörelsestimuleringen, som är ett centralt moment i metoden, kontroversiell och dess funktion inte klarlagd.
I föreliggande undersökning randomiserades trettiosex friska försökspersoner till en av tre stimuleringsbetingelser: ögonrörelsestimulering, taktil stimulering eller orörligt visuellt stimuli (kontrollgrupp). Stimuleringen kombinerades med imaginär exponering, negativ och positiv. Utfallet av experimentet mättes i olika fysiologiska mätparametrar, samt självskattningar av obehagsnivån (SUD). Resultaten visade signifikant högre hudkonduktansnivå vid ögonrörelsestimulering jämfört med kontrollgruppen, relaterat till aktivering av det sympatiska nervsystemet. Inga signifikanta gruppskillnader fanns i de övriga mätningarna. Mönstret av autonom aktivering kan tyda på att ögonrörelsestimuleringen utlöser eller förstärker en orienteringsrespons, vilket vissa teoretiker föreslagit är den verksamma mekanismen i EMDR. Dock behövs fortsatt forskning för att förstå denna verkan, samt koppling till terapeutisk effekt.

Eye Movement desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR, psychotherapy research has shown to be an effective treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD. By contrast, ögonrörelsestimuleringen, which is the lynchpin of the method, the controversy and its function is not clear.
In the present study were randomized thirty-six healthy subjects to one of three stimulation conditions: eye movement stimulation, tactile stimulation or static visual stimuli (control group). The stimulation was combined with imaginary exposure, negative and positive. The outcome of the experiment were measured in various physiological measurement parameters, and self-estimates of the level of discomfort (SUD). The results showed significantly higher hudkonduktansnivå the eye movement stimulation compared with control group, related to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. No significant group differences were found in the other measurements. The pattern of autonomic activation may indicate that ögonrörelsestimuleringen trigger or reinforce an orientation response, as some theorists suggested is the active mechanism in EMDR. However, further research is needed to understand this effect, as well as access to therapeutic efficacy.

Keywords: Eye Movements Dismantling Study Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

50. Pagani, M., Nardo, D., Höberg, G., & Larson, S. (2009, November). Gray matter changes in limbic cortex in PTSD are associated with trauma load and EMDR outcome. Presentation at the 25th annual meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Atlanta, GA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Psychophysiological Research
There is converging evidence of gray matter (GM) structural alterations in different limbic structures in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate GM reduction in PTSD in relation to trauma load, and to assess the volumetric differences between responders (R) and non-responders (NR) to EMDR therapy. Magnetic Resonance Imaging scans of 21 subjects exposed to occupational trauma, who developed PTSD (S), and of 22 who did not (NS), were compared by means of an optimized Voxel-Based Morphometry (VBM) analysis as implemented in SPM. Within S, further comparisons were made between 10 R and 5 NR. A regression analysis between GM density and the Traumatic Antecedents Questionnaire (TAQ) was also performed on all 43 subjects. Results showed a highly significant GM volume reduction in S as compared to NS, bilaterally in posterior cingulate and in the left hemisphere in precuneus, lingual and parahippocampal gyri. Moreover, NR showed a highly significant GM volume reduction as compared to R in bilateral posterior cingulate, as well as insula, parahippocampal gyrus and amygdala in the right hemisphere. Regression analysis showed that GM volume reductions positively correlated with trauma load in bilateral anterior and posterior cingulate and right parahippocampal gyrus. In conclusion, GM volume reductions in posterior cingulate and parahippocampal cortex were associated with PTSD diagnosis, trauma load, and EMDR treatment outcome.

Keywords: Limbic Cortex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Outcome Trauma Load

Accuracy Verified: Yes

51. Barrowcliff, A., Gray, N., MacCulloch, S., Freeman, T., & MacCulloch, M. (2003, September). Horizontal rhythmical eye movements consistently diminish the arousal provoked by auditory stimuli. British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 42(3). 289-302. doi:10.1348/01446650360703393.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Objectives: Theoretical models implicating the orienting reflex as an explanatory mechanism in the eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) treatment protocol are contrasted and tested empirically. We also test whether EMDR effects are due to a distraction effect. Design: A repeated measure design is used in two experiments. The first experiment employed two independent variables, eye condition (moving vs. stationary) and tone (a pseudo-randomized series of low and high intensity tones). In Expt 2, eye condition was replaced by attentional demand conditions (low or high). In both cases, electrodermal responses served as the dependent variable. Method: Participants were recruited from the Psychology Department at Cardiff University. In Expt 1, participants were required to either pursue a moving stimulus following auditory challenge or engage in an eyes-stationary task. In Expt 2, the task following auditory challenge required participants to identify specific items from letter strings in low and high attentional demand conditions. Results: Lower levels of electrodermal arousal were identified in tasks eliciting eye movements, compared to no eye movements. This effect was not due to the attentional requirements of the task. Conclusions: Eye movements following auditory challenge result in an effect of psychophysiological de-arousal. This supports the reassurance reflex model of EMDR proposed by MacCulloch and Feldman (1996).

Keywords: Distraction Effect Empirical Study Orienting Reflex Quantitative Study

Accuracy Verified: Yes

52. O'Malley, A. (2008, June). The impact of neglect and trauma on the developing infant brain and the implications for EMDR therapy. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, London, England .

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This presentation starts with sensory development in pregnancy. By 22 weeks there is already a high level of brain organisation with touch, taste, hearing and smell already well developed. Balance, vision and motor development follow and the links to learning and states of consciousness are explained. The concept of birth as our first traumatic experience is introduced and the implications for future EMDR therapy are discussed. Infant brain development occurs sequentially implying vulnerabilities during the early years of life. This has a direct relationship on attunement, which is influenced by developmental neglect and trauma. The effects of this trauma for EMDR therapy are explored. New information about the probable mechanism of action of the bilateral stimulation used in EMDR is presented. The mechanism of translating sensory input into new neuronal patterns is explained. The hypothesis of a ‘window of tolerance’ in trauma is mentioned with the reasons why EMDR can help alleviate trauma by expanding the window of tolerance. The concept of a structural developmental model of emotional awareness is explained with how this relates to trauma and a sense of self. The anatomical correlates of emotional processing are suggested at both cortical and limbic system levels. Ways in which EMDR can be modified in light of this knowledge are proposed. An additional model of applying EMDR is outlined. This involves multilateral activation of sympathetic nervous systems to consciously overcome traumas. This process will be shown to lead to brainstem stimulation activating the cranial nerves, which innervate the ocular muscles generating rapid eye movement.

Keywords: Infantile Brain Development

Accuracy Verified: Yes

53. 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

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Poster Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

55. Leeds, A. (2007, June). Improving self-regulation and social functioning for survivors of early emotional neglect and abuse with positive affect tolerance and integration protocol: A case series. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Paris, France.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Survivors of early emotional neglect experience pervasive difficulties including vulnerability to adult psychiatric disorders and inability to regulate emotional states (Schore, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2001a, 2001b; Teicher, 2000, 2002; Teicher et al, 1993; Teicher et al., 1997). Their inability to regulate emotional states is not solely linked to effects of adverse events, but is significantly linked to insufficient exposure to normal, developmental attachment sequences that foster capacities for self-regulation.
A subset of adult survivors of early, pervasive, emotional neglect who meet full or partial criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder also present with comorbid Cluster C Axis II symptoms (Avoidant, Dependent, Obsessive-Compulsive) and meet criteria for dismissing (or fearful) insecure attachment (Cassidy & Shaver, 1999; Main, 1996).
Clinical assessment reveals these patients have low tolerance for positive interpersonal emotions and engage in defensive strategies to dismiss, minimize, deny or subtly avoid experiencing and assimilating this positive emotional states into their internal model of self. These strategies include overt and covert behavioral avoidance as well as dissociate defenses. Paradoxically, these patients may show superficial characteristics or competence, interpersonal skills, or emotional stability which on closer examination prove to be fragile or which collapse in the face of social stressors.
The general theoretical base for the Positive Affect Tolerance and Integration (PAT) protocol is related to McCullough’s (1996, 2003) model of affect phobia and recognizes McCullough’s emphasis on an anxiety regulating, titrated approach to developing tolerance for adaptive affect and associated coping behaviors. Putnam’s (1997) discrete behavioral states model provides an important conceptual framework for understanding these patients’ needs to gradually develop new discrete behavioral (psychophysiological and affective) states and new pathways (schemes and scripts) fostering access to these shared positive states often as a crucial early phase of treatment to help resolve their impairments in emotional self-regulation.
This presentation describes the use of standard EMDR procedural steps in a treatment plan that postpones the standard three pronged (past, present, future) PTSD protocol, but which is consistent with the consensus model for Complex PTSD (Brown, Scheflin & Hammond, 1998; Chu, 1998; Courtois, 1999; Hart, Nijenhuis, Steele, 2006) and other EMDR approaches focused initially on improving response to current stimuli (Hoffman, 2004; Leeds & Korn, 1998; Leeds & Shapiro, 2000) before attempting to target childhood traumatic memories. Targets for PAT are recent experiences in which the patient was exposed to positive, shared, interpersonal emotional states. The purposes for applying PAT to these targets are: to decrease defensive avoidance; dissociation and anxiety about shared positive emotional states; to increase capacity to tolerate and enjoy these shared positive emotional states; and to integrate these shared positive emotional states into positive schemas and self-concepts. Observed clinical gains following PAT included: improved mood and resilience, and decreased depersonalization during subsequent use of EMDR to reprocess traumatic memories.
The goal in presenting this “Positive Affect Tolerance and Integration Protocol” case series is to encourage research to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of this application of the standard EMDR procedures for a clinical subpopulation generally considered challenging to treat.

Keywords: Affect Tolerance Poster Self-Regulation Social Functioning

Accuracy Verified: Yes

56. Leeds, A. M. (1997, July). In the eye of the beholder: Reflections on shame, dissociation, and transference in complex post-traumatic stress and attachment disorders. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, San Francisco, CA.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This paper covered material on how affect theory, attachment theory and EMDR theory can help with case formulation and treatment planning. This paper provided the first in depth presentation on Resource Development and Resource Installation which previously had been presented only at EMDR Institute trainings at speciality presentations. [Author abstract]

Keywords: Neurobiological Correlates RDI Resource Development and Installation Shame

Accuracy Verified: Yes

57. Harford, P. M. (2010). The integrative use of EMDR and clinical hypnosis in the treatment of adults abused as children. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 4(2), 60-75. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.4.2.60.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
The potential benefits of the use of a permissive style of clinical hypnosis as a therapeutic medium to enhance eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) trauma treatment are explored. A comparative review of hypnosis and EMDR is provided, including putative psychophysiological mechanisms for both. A rationale for integrating clinical hypnosis with EMDR treatment is presented. It is suggested that hypnosis primarily enhances the accessibility of traumatic information while EMDR primarily enhances the reprocessing of traumatic information and that accessibility and reprocessing are reciprocal features. The relative and combined merits of hypnosis and EMDR for resource development are discussed. The author proposes that clinical hypnosis may be incorporated into EMDR without necessarily modifying the eight-stage EMDR protocol apart from modifications that are indicated for special conditions. Three case vignettes are used to illustrate the integrative use of clinical hypnosis and EMDR in the treatment of adults who experienced childhood abuse.

Keywords: Abuse ACC Adolescents Children Clinical Hypnosis Complex PTSD Complex Posttraumatic Strress Disorder C-PTSD Integrative Use VMPFC

Accuracy Verified: Yes

58. Paterson, M. (2001, May). Interactive cognitive sub-systems as a theoretical basis for EMDR. Presentation at the EMDR Europe Association annual meeting, London, UK.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a novel approach to treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It relies upon having clients access images of their traumas, negative self-schemas, emotions, and somatic memories and reprocessing these to resolution of the traumatic memory. The simultaneous linking of these components is accompanied by alternating stimulations of the brains hemispheres using either auditory tones, tactile sensation, or rapid eye movements across the visual field. Successful completion of the treatment results in trauma images fading, positive cognitive shift, reduction of negative affect, and disappearance of somatic sensations. Shapiro (1995) proposed an 'accelerated processing model' for EMDR that essentially pulls together the different strands of the treatment in a coherent way. It suggests that the brain heals itself, as with tissue damage, and changes in symptomatology are always from negative to positive. What Shapiro's model does not do is operationally define her concepts and explain the way changes in dysfunctional information occur. For example, the EMDR model, as with Beck's (1987) Clinical Cognitive Model, accepts that clients place new meaning on dysfunctionally stored information, but lacks explanation of how this occurs: i.e. the shift from irrational to rational beliefs, and from 'cold' to 'hot' cognitions. This paper rectifies the difficulties the 'accelerated processing model' has in acting as a theoretical basis for EMDR. It describes firstly the received wisdom on the neurophysiological, and psychological correlates of PTSD. It then goes on to examine the treatment components considered necessary for the effective resolution of the disorder. In its final phase, the paper considers how well models of information processing explain the acquisition and maintenance of PTSD. It adopts a modification of the Ingerchanging Cognitive Subsystems (ICS) approach (Teasdale & Barnard, 1993), a theory based in cognitive science, to operationally define EMDR's component parts and its process in the treatment of PTSD. The ICS approach is recommended as a useful way to conceptualise the maintenance of PTSD and a strong theoretical basis for EMDR.

Keywords: Theory

Accuracy Verified: Yes

59. Scagliotti, J. (2011). Interoceptive exposure therapy for combat veterans: A group treatment approach. University of Hartford, Hartford, CT.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
This paper explores the application of interoceptive exposure (IE) therapy to treat the arousal and avoidant symptoms in veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The historical background of PTSD and the functional impact of the disorder in veterans from Vietnam and Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom are discussed in the first chapter. Literature on romantic and family relationship impairment, employment challenges, decreased physical health and overall quality of life, and increased mental health issues in veterans of combat are presented. Following the introductory chapter is a brief description of the history of treatment for combat trauma and a detailed review of the most common treatments for PTSD in their application to the veteran population. Research on psychophysiological approaches to treatment, pharmacotherapy, and EMDR is discussed. The extensive literature on cognitive behavioral treatment approaches for combat trauma is reviewed. As noted, exposure therapy appears to be the treatment approach with the most scientific support. A relatively new form of exposure therapy known as IE, as well as the small but promising body of research on the potential to augment conventional long-term exposure therapy with IE, are also addressed here. A new treatment protocol proposed here is built upon the foundation of empirical support for cognitive behavioral therapy for PTSD. It is intended to incorporate trauma-informed best practices and exposure therapy tenets through the implementation of group based IE for individuals with combat-related PTSD. Outlines of the following two sections will provide detailed descriptions of the group design and the specific treatment modules, the first of which addresses therapeutic rationale and group composition, and the second lists the specific twelve treatment modules.

Keywords: Combat Veterans Interoceptive Exposure Therapy

Accuracy Verified: Yes

60. 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

61. Puliatti, M. (2008, Novembre). L'EMDR nel trattamento del dolore uro-genitale [EMDR in the treatment of uro-genital pain]. Presentazione le Applicazioni Cliniche del EMDR Congresso Nazionale, Milano, Italia.

Language: Italian

Format: Conference

Abstract:
La rilevazione di disturbi uro-ginecologici è in costante crescita, è ciò probabilmente a causa della maggiore attenzione che i clinici dimostrano nei confronti di disturbi variegatati, a volte quasi impalpabili, ma che possono anche dimostrarsi invalidanti. Oltre al vaginismo e alla dispareunia, ben noti nella letteratura scientifica da decenni, crescente interesse stanno dimostrando disturbi come la cistite interstiziale, il dolore pelvico e la vulvodinia. Complessivamente considerati, la componente psicosomatica di tali disturbi viene abbondantemente confermata dalla letteratura. A prescindere dagli approcci più chiaramente monolaterali e riduttivi, si nota nella letteratura un interesse consolidato per una terapia che sia per definizione integrata: ginecologica/riabilitativa, psicoeducazionale, sessuologica e psicoterapeutica. L’EMDR si propone in questo ambito clinico come uno strumento di straordinaria versatilità, potendo infatti intervenire sia a livello delle cause remote (eventi stressanti/traumatici, educazione sessuale distorta, etc.), che delle contingenze attuali che mantengono o peggiorano la sintomatologia, offrendo inoltre la possibilità di intervenire direttamente sia sul dolore inteso come sintomo, che sugli scenari futuri connotati negativamente dalla paziente, che frequentemente sono connessi alla percezione del dolore stesso. Infine, si rivela di particolare utilità nel caso in cui il dolore sia correlato a difficoltà relazionali caratterizzate da scarsa assertività. Nell’ambito del Workshop verranno approfondite le seguenti tematiche: • Diagnosi differenziale tra i differenti tipi di dolore uro-ginecologico. • Valutazione dell’eziologia multifattoriale: cause biologiche, psicosessuali, relazionali e presenza di eventi traumatici. • Ruolo dell’abuso sessuale. • Meccanismi psicofisiologici nell’insorgenza dei disturbi: il ruolo della tensione muscolare. • Caratteristiche psicologiche della donna che presenta dolore uro-ginecologico. • Strumenti di screening psicodiagnostico. • Cenni sulle principali strategie di valutazione e di intervento uro-ginecologiche e farmacologiche • Pianificazione e fasi del trattamento con l’EMDR, e loro integrazione con differenti approcci psicoterapeutici: aree di indagine, aspetti psicoeducazionali, tecniche sessuologiche specifiche, target caratteristici, l’utilizzo dell’EMDR nelle differenti fasi del trattamento.

The detection of uro-gynecological disorders is growing, this is probably due to the increased attention that clinicians demonstrate against variegatati disorders, sometimes almost intangible, but can also prove crippling. In addition to vaginismus and dyspareunia, well known in the scientific literature for decades, are showing increasing interest in disorders such as interstitial cystitis, pelvic pain and vulvodynia. Overall, the psychosomatic component of these disorders is abundantly confirmed by the literature. Apart from unilateral and reductionist approaches more clearly, there is a vested interest in literature for a treatment that is by definition integrated: gynecological / rehabilitation, psycho-educational, sexology and psychotherapy. EMDR is proposed in this clinical setting as an instrument of extraordinary versatility, allowing it to intervene at the level of remote causes (stressful events / trauma, distorted sex education, etc..) That the current quotas that maintain or worsen the symptoms, offering the possibility to intervene directly understood as a symptom is pain, which adversely on future scenarios of patient characteristics, which are frequently associated with pain perception itself. Finally, it proves particularly useful in cases where the pain is related to interpersonal difficulties characterized by lack of assertiveness. As part of the workshop will examine the following issues: • Differential diagnosis between different types of pain, uro-gynecology. • Evaluation multifactorial etiology: biological, psychosexual, relationship and presence of traumatic events. • Role of sexual abuse. • psychophysiological mechanisms in the onset of the disorder: the role of muscle tension. • Psychological characteristics of women with uro-gynecological pain. • psycho-diagnostic screening tools. • Work on the main strategies for assessment and intervention uro-gynecological and pharmacological • Planning and stages of treatment with EMDR, and their integration with different psychotherapeutic approaches: areas of inquiry, psychoeducational aspects, technical sexological specific target features, using EMDR in different stages of treatment.

Keywords: Urogenital Pain

Accuracy Verified: Yes

62. 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

63. Lohr, J. M., Kleinknecht, R. A., Conley, A. T., Dal Cerro, S., Schmidt, S., & Sonntag, M. E. (1992, September). A methodological critique of the current status of eye movement desensitization (EMD). Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 23(3), 159-167. doi:10.1016/0005-7916(92)90032-E.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization (EMD) has been recently advocated as a rapid treatment for the elimination of traumatic memories responsible for the maintenance of a number of anxiety disorders and their clinical correlates. Despite a limited conceptual framework, EMD has attracted considerable interest among clinicians and researchers. The popularity and interest generated by EMD will likely result in wide usage. We present a methodological critique of it with reference to assessment, treatment outcome, and treatment process. We also provide guidelines for judging the methodological adequacy of research on EMD and suggest intensive research to assess effectiveness, treatment components, and comparisons with other procedures. [Author Summary]

Keywords: PTSD Assessment Instruments Literature Review Methodology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Research Needs Review

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: French

Format: Conference

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

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

Keywords: Immersion Stress Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiological Responses PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

65. 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

66. 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

67. Pagani, M., DiLorenzo, G., Verardo, A. R., Nicolais, G., Monaco, L., Lauretti, G., Russo, R., Niolu, C., Ammaniti, M. Fernandex, I., & Siracusano, A. (2012). Neurobiological correlates of EMDR monitoring - an EEG study. PLoS ONE, 7(9), 1-12. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0045753.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Background: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a recognized first-line treatment for psychological trauma. However its neurobiological bases have yet to be fully disclosed. Methods: Electroencephalography (EEG) was used to fully monitor neuronal activation throughout EMDR sessions including the autobiographical script. Ten patients with major psychological trauma were investigated during their first EMDR session (T0) and during the last one performed after processing the index trauma (T1). Neuropsychological tests were administered at the same time. Comparisons were performed between EEGs of patients at T0 and T1 and between EEGs of patients and 10 controls who underwent the same EMDR procedure at T0. Connectivity analyses were carried out by lagged phase synchronization. RESULTS: During bilateral ocular stimulation (BS) of EMDR sessions EEG showed a significantly higher activity on the orbito-frontal, prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortex in patients at T0 shifting towards left temporo-occipital regions at T1. A similar trend was found for autobiographical script with a higher firing in fronto-temporal limbic regions at T0 moving to right temporo-occipital cortex at T1. The comparisons between patients and controls confirmed the maximal activation in the limbic cortex of patients occurring before trauma processing. Connectivity analysis showed decreased pair-wise interactions between prefrontal and cingulate cortex during BS in patients as compared to controls and between fusiform gyrus and visual cortex during script listening in patients at T1 as compared to T0. These changes correlated significantly with those occurring in neuropsychological tests. Conclusion: The ground-breaking methodology enabled our study to image for the first time the specific activations associated with the therapeutic actions typical of EMDR protocol. The findings suggest that traumatic events are processed at cognitive level following successful EMDR therapy, thus supporting the evidence of distinct neurobiological patterns of brain activations during BS associated with a significant relief from negative emotional experiences.

Keywords: EEG Study Neurobiological Correlates

Accuracy Verified: Yes

68. Pagani, M. et al (2012, June). Neurobiological correlates of EMDR monitoring - An EEG study [Correlatos neurobiológicos y monitorización EMDR – un estudio con EEG]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Madrid, Spain.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Background: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a recognized first-‐line treatment for psychological trauma. However its neurobiological bases have not been disclosed yet. Methods: Electroencephalography was used for the first time to fully monitor neuronal activation during whole EMDR sessions including the autobiographical script. Ten clients with major psychological trauma were investigated during the first EMDR session and during the last one performed after processing the index trauma. Comparisons between the EEG of the first and last EMDR session and between the EEG of the clients at the first session and those of 10 controls undergoing the same EMDR procedure were performed. Results: During both script listening and bilateral stimulation EEG showed significantly higher activity in the prefrontal limbic cortex (Brodmann Areas, BA 9-‐ 10) at the first as compared to the last EMDR session. The opposite comparison showed a shift of the prevalent activity towards temporal, parietal and occipital cortical regions (BAs 20, 21, 22, 37, 17, 18, 19) with leftward lateralization. The comparison between the 10 clients and the 10 controls confirmed the maximal activation in the limbic cortex in the clients before processing the trauma. Conclusions: The implemented methodology made possible to image for the first time the specific activations associated with the therapeutic actions contemplated by EMDR. The findings suggested cognitive processing of traumatic events following successful EMDR therapy supporting the evidence of distinct neurobiological patterns of brain activations during bilateral ocular stimulation associated with a significant relieve from negative emotional experiences.

Antecedente Teórico: La desensibilización y reprocesamiento por el movimiento ocular (EMDR) es una reconocida primera línea para el tratamiento del trauma psicológico. Sin embargo sus bases neurobiológicas no han sido descifradas todavía. Método: La electroencefalografía ha sido usada por primera vez para monitorizar completamente la activación neuronal durante sesiones enteras de EMDR incluyendo el guión autobiográfico. 10 Clientes con traumas psicológicos mayores fueron investigados durante la primera sesión de EMDR y durante la última después del procesamiento del trauma raíz. Las comparaciones entre los EEG de la última y primera sesión y las de EEG de los clientes en la primera sesión y 10 controles realizando el mismo procedimiento de EMDR fueron realizadas. Resultados: Durante ambos procesos, la escucha y la estimulación bilateral, el EEG mostró una actividad significativamente mayor en el córtex límbico prefontral (Brodmann Areas, BA 9-‐10) al principio comparadas con la última sesión de EMDR. La comparación opuesta muestra un cambio en la actividad fundamental entre las regiones corticales temporal, parietal y occipital (BAs 20, 21, 22, 37, 17, 18, 19) con lateralizaciones hacia la izquierda. La comparación entre los 10 clientes y los controles confirman la activación máxima de la corteza límbica en los clientes antes de procesar el trauma. Conclusiones: La metodología usada hizo posible visualizar la neuroimagen por primera vez de las activaciones cerebrales asociadas con las acciones terapéuticas que acontecen en el EMDR. Los hallazgos sugieren que el procesamiento cognitivo de los eventos traumáticos seguidos de una terapia EMDR exitosa apoyan la evidencia de un patrón neurobiológico diferenciado en las activaciones del cerebro durante la estimulación ocular bilateral asociados con una acumulación un experiencias emocionales negativas.

Keywords: EEG Study

Accuracy Verified: Yes

69. 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

70. 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

71. Hedstrom, J. (1991, March). A note on eye movements and relaxation. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 22(1), 37-38. doi:10.1016/0005-7916(91)90031-Y.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Eye movements and certain visual mechanisms appear to be related to states of relaxation and levels of wakefulness. The hatha yoga tradition in its historical and contemporary forms uses certain eye 'exercises' or postures to induce relaxation and reduce arousal. Visual correlates of the alpha state are well known. These phenomena may be involved in the success of the new eye desensitization procedure.

Keywords: Eye Movements Relaxation

Accuracy Verified: Yes

72. Lipke, H. (2009). On science, orthodoxy, EMDR, and the AIP. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 3(2), 109-110. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.3.2.109.

Language: English

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Comments on the book by Francine Shapiro (see record 2001-05049-000). I was fortunate to observe Shapiro’s concern for the principles of science in the development of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). She insisted that EMDR be called experimental until after there was supportive peer-reviewed literature, limited training to mental health professionals, and strongly encouraged research. EMDRIA and its peer-reviewed journal have generally continued in this admirable direction. However, when an association is organized around a specific method of treatment rather than a problem area or a more general philosophy of approach, the question of orthodoxy must be addressed. At its best, orthodoxy ensures that practice is consistent with what has been demonstrated to be worthwhile, and all benefit from adherence. Also, there are aspects of the adaptive information processing (AIP), as it is described in the text, that are debatable and some that appear even self-contradictory. One example is Shapiro’s claim that the AIP is a “psychophysiological” model while also denying that enough is known about the details of psychophysiology to offer an explicit model. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2009 APA, all rights reserved)

Keywords: Adaptive Information Processing AIP

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

74. Hopchet, M., & Detournay, F. (2012, June). Preliminary study on the effects of simultaneous application of two types of stimulations (eye movements and tactile stimuli) on psychophysiological autoreported symptoms in the treatment of negative autobiographical memories [Estudios preliminares sobre los efectos de la aplicación simultanea de dos tipos de estimulación (movimientos oculares y táctiles) en sintomatología psicofisiológica autoinformada en el tratamiento de recuerdos autobiográficos negativos]. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Madrid, Spain.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Negative autobiographical memories are effectively treated using EMDR with patients making eye movements during the recall of negative autobiographical memories. While several studies have measured the effects of different types of stimulations, we are not aware of any research assessing the combined effects of two different stimulations applied simultaneously during the recall of the event. For this preliminary study involving 15 adult patients from both sexes, 4 EMDR counselor therapists measure 17 symptoms of the list proposed by Weimann (1968)). Each patient is evaluated before, during and at the end of each session. We control the effect of the sequence of one versus two types of stimulations by assigning each patient to both conditions but in a random way: (a) first target first session with one type of stimulation following with a second target first session, including two types of stimulation; (b) the inversed sequence. We compare the mean level intensity of each symptom (within factor) between one type vs. two types of stimulations (between factor) using the Anova and the t- Student tests. We hypothesize that an attenuation of intensity of the stress symptoms occurs when the patient is treated simultaneously with two types of bilateral stimulation (eye movements and tactile stimuli), compared to one (eye movements). The paper presents preliminary data, as well as a discussion of the results in the light of the theory of the working memory (Andrade et al.1997) and the reassurance reflex model of EMDR proposed by MacCulloch and Feldman (1996).

Los recuerdos autobiográficos negativos son tratados con efectividad usando el EMDR con pacientes a través del movimiento ocular de ojos durante el acceso al recuerdo negativo autobiográfico. Mientras muchos estudios han medido dos tipos diferentes de estimulación, no estamos al corriente de ninguna otra investigación que informe de los efectos combinados de los dos tipos de estimulación aplicada simultáneamente durante este acceso al recuerdo del evento. En este estudio preliminar contamos con los datos de 15 pacientes adultos de ambos sexos, 4 consultores EMDR midieron 17 síntomas de la lista propuesta por Weimann (1968). Cada paciente era evaluado antes, durante, y al final de cada sesión. Controlamos los efectos de una secuencia en función de los 2 tipos de estimulación, asignando a cada paciente ambas condiciones pero de manera aleatorizada: (a) Primer recuerdo Diana, primera sesión con un tipo de estimulación seguido de un Segundo recuerdo de la primera sesión incluyendo dos tipos de estimulación; (b) invertimos la secuencia anterior. Comparamos la media del nivel de intensidad de cada síntoma (dentro del factor) entre un tipo y dos tipos de estimulación (entre factores) usando cálculos estadísticos de Anoia y una t-‐Student para los resultados. Nuestra hipótesis es que ocurrirá una atenuación de los síntomas de estrés cuando el paciente es tratado simultáneamente con dos tipos de estimulación bilateral (movimientos oculares y estímulos táctiles), comparados con la de un solo tipo (Movimientos oculares). Este artículo presenta el análisis preliminar de los datos, así como la discusión de los resultados en línea con la teoría de la memoria de trabajo (Andrade y cols 1997) y la reafirmación del modelo refractario del EMDR propuesto por MacCulloch y Feldman (1996).

Keywords: Autobiographical Memories Bilateral Stimulation Eye Movements Tactile Stimulation

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychophysiological Activation PSTD Trauma Script

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

Keywords: Psychophysiological Assessment Treatment Outcome Working Mechanism

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Medical Treatment Outcome

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Mechanism of Action Plenary

Accuracy Verified: Yes

80. Sack, M., Lempa, W., & Lamprecht, F. (2005, June). Psychophysiological monitoring during trauma therapy with EMDR. In R.-L. Punamäki (Chair) Neurobiology and Trauma. Symposium conducted at the 9th European Conference on Traumatic Stress (ECOTS), Stockholm, Sweden.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: Psychophysiological Monitoring Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

81. Sack, M., & Lempa, W. F. (2002, May). Psychophysiological monitoring during treatment sessions – An Approach to the assessment of neurobiological mechanisms of EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Frankfurt, Germany.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Keywords: Neurobiological Mechanisms

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Research Responsivity Symposium Trauma

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Journal

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

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

84. Sack, M., Nickel, L., Lempa, W., & Lamprecht, F. (2003). Psychophysiologische regulation bei patienten mit PTSD: Veränderungen nach EMDR-behandlung [Psychophysiological regulation in patients with PTSD: Improvement after EMDR-treatment]. Zeitschrift für Psychotraumatologie und Psychologische Medizin (ZPPM), 1(3), 47-57.

Language: German

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Behandlung psychotraumatischer belastungsstörungen mit EMDR
Uns interessierte die Frage, ob die EMDR-Behandlung bei Patienten mit Posttraumatischer Belastungsstörung (PTSD) neben einer Symptomreduktion auch mit einer verbesserten psychophysiologischen Regulationsfähigkeit einhergeht. 15 Patienten (9 w, 6 m) mit PTSD nach Einzeltraumatisierung wurden vor und nach einer EMDR- Behandlung sowie in einer 6-Monate Katamnese per Fragebogen (PDS, IES, STAI, SCL-90-R) sowie mit psychophysiologischen Parameter (HR, HRV) während Konfrontation mit der individuellen traumatischen Erinnerung (Traumaskript) untersucht. Im Vergleich Prä-/Post, sowie Prä-/Katamnese kam es zu einer signifikanten Abnahme der Beschwerden in allen Symptombereichen. Gleichzeitig konnte nach Behandlung und in der Katamnese eine signifikante Verminderung des Anstiegs der Herzfrequenz während Konfrontation mit dem Traumaskript beobachtet werden. Der HF-Anteil der Herzratenvariabilität als Indikator für den Parasympathikotonus nahm im Vergleich Prä-/Katamnese unter Ruhebedingungen sowie während Traumaskript signifikant zu. Die EMDR-Behandlung erwies sich als wirksam hinsichtlich einer Reduktion der traumaassoziierten Symptomatik und einer Reduktion des psychophysiologischen Arousals bei Konfrontation mit der belastenden Erinnerung. Die Zunahme der HRV im Behandlungsverlauf im Sinne eines höheren Parasympathikotonus lässt auf eine Verbesserung der psychophysiologischen Regulationsfähigkeit schließen.

Our question was whether PTSD-patients would show a decrease of trauma associated symptoms as well as improved psychophysiological regulatory capacities after EMDR-treatment. 15 patients (9 female, 6 male) with PTSD after single traumatizations underwent psychometric assessment including questionnaires (PDS, IES, STAI, SCL-90-R) and psychophysiological variables (HR, HRV) during presentation of their individual trauma script before and after treatment and in a 6-month follow-up. Pre-/post as well as pre-/follow-up comparison showed significant decreases in all symptom measures. At the same time HR acceleration during trauma script decreased significantly after treatment. HF-HRV, an indicator for parasympathetic tone, increased significantly during baseline as well as during trauma script in pre-/post comparison. EMDR treatment led to an effective and lasting symptom reduction as well as to a reduction of the psychophysiological arousal associated with the traumatic memory. Enhancement of HRV after treatment in terms of a higher parasympathetic tone might be the result of improved psychophysiological regulatory capacities after successful EMDR treatment. [Author Summary]

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

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

Keywords: Dismantling Study Psychophysiology Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

86. Courtois, C. (1998, July). Recollections of sexual abuse: Principles and guidelines of treatment (EMDR not the focus). Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Baltimore, MD.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Participants will be able to: 1) discuss some of the major issues in the delayed/recovered memory controversy; 2) list some of the long-term clinical correlates associated with a history of child sexual abuse; 3) list some of the clinical presentations of adults abuse or possibly abused as children as they pretain to memory; and 4) describe suggested guidelines for treatement of adults abused or possibley abused as children and most common stages and tasks of posttrauma treatment.

Keywords: Sexual Abuse

Accuracy Verified: Yes

87. Giovannozzi, G. (2013, June). Safety, regulation, self-regulation and eye contact: New challenges for EMDR therapy. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Geneva, Switzerland.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
Porges’ polivagal theory of the hierarchical interpretation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), in addition to extending the range of human beings’ possible responses to environmental demands, links the first line ventral-vagal response with the regulation of important viscera as well as that of facial and head muscles, mediating social interactions, and associates its activation with the feeling of safety, identifying this latter condition as essential for a person’s well-being.
Without safety no social relations, physiological regulation or healing are possible. Hence the importance for EMDR therapists to lead their clients to this condition: lacking the activation of the ventral-vagal circuit there can be no processing. EMDR therapists will be provided with tools to keep their clients in safe conditions within the setting.
Clients exposed to trauma and/or insecure attachment do not have a good ANS regulation and maintain inadequate defensive attitudes – as demonstrated by Porges’ results, easily comparable with Schore’s on affective development and with those of several multi-disciplinary scholars.
Exploring this dysfunction provides EMDR therapists with useful elements to guide their clients in the difficult task of confronting what they did not/could not process at that time. We propose a three-pronged cross-sectional assessment, regardless of the pathology, aimed at identifying the defensive arousal state of the ANS needed to face the dysregulating impact at that time, focusing on the prevalent activation style of the client, when meeting environmental challenges, and that emerging in the session. Starting from this assessment, EMDR therapists will be provided with tools to help clients recognize and master their defenses to increase their flexibility.
Using the regulation as a healing instrument and goal, and given the two-directional psychophysiological approach, where psychological and physiological processes meet, a new intervention model, stemming from the AIP-EMDR approach, is proposed, acting directly on the missing or impaired developmental stages of the self-regulation ability, consistently with what Porges hoped for.
The intervention focuses on Eye Contact (EC), because, as confirmed by several scholars, this is a privileged communication pathway, in particular in the mother-child dyad, to learn self-regulating skills and is easily impaired in psychiatric clients.
Learning objectives: Raise EMDR therapists’ awareness of the importance of safety for their clients, based on Porges’ Polyvagal Theory; Provide therapists with tools to maintain clients’ safety during the session; Help EMDR therapist to recognize and modulate clients’ Autonomic Nervous System activation; and Present an EMDR Protocol to regulate Eye Contact

Keywords: Eye Contact Protocol Regulation Safety

Accuracy Verified: Yes

88. Bossini, L., Casolaro, I., Santarnecchi, E., Caterini, C., Koukouna, D., Fernandez, I., & Fagiolini, A. (2012, March-April). Studio di valutazione dell'efficacia clinica e neurobiologica dell'EMDR in pazienti affetti da disturbo da stress post-traumatico [Evaluation study of clinical and neurobiological efficacy of EMDR in patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder]. Rivista di Pschiatria, 47(Supplement 1), 12S-15S. doi:10.1078/1071.11733.

Language: Italian

Format: Journal

Abstract:
Un forte supporto all'uso prove di EMDR nei pazienti affetti da disturbo post-traumatico da stress (PTSD). Obiettivo. Per valutare l'efficacia clinica e neurobiologica-strutturale di EMDR alla droga naïve PTSD senza comorbidità. Materiali e metodi. Abbiamo fatto una valutazione clinica e la misurazione del volume ippocampale da MRI su 29 soggetti affetti da PTSD e su 30 soggetti sani di controllo. Quindi, i pazienti sono stati trattati con EMDR e dopo tre mesi di psicoterapia della valutazione clinica e l'esame di risonanza magnetica sono state risposto. Risultati e discussione. I nostri risultati hanno dimostrato che la diagnosi di PTSD non era più possibile su tutti i pazienti che hanno terminato la psicoterapia (n = 18). Allo stesso tempo, tutti i pazienti hanno mostrato un aumento medio del 6% dei volumi dell'ippocampo. Conclusioni. La reaserach suggerisce che il trattamento EMDR correla non solo con un miglioramento significativo dei sintomi di PTSD, ma anche con un significativo aumento del volume dell'ippocampo.

Strong evidence support use of EMDR in patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Aim. To evaluate clinical and neurobiological-structural efficacy of EMDR on drug-naïve PTSD without comorbidity. Materials and methods. We made clinical evaluation and hippocampal volume measurement by MRI on 29 subjects suffering from PTSD and on 30 healthy control-subjects. Then, patients were treated with EMDR and after three months of psychotherapy the clinical evaluation and the MRI exam were replied. Results and discussion. Our results demonstrated that the diagnosis of PTSD was no more possible on all the patients who terminated the psychotherapy (n=18). At the same time, all the patients showed an average increase of 6% in hippocampal volumes. Conclusions. Our reaserach suggests that EMDR treatment correlates not only with a significant improvement of symptoms of PTSD, but also with a significant increase of hippocampal volumes.

Keywords: Neurobiology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

89. Pagani, M., Lorenzo, Gd., Verardo, A., Nicolais, G., Monaco, L., Niolu, C., Fernandez, I., & Siracusano, A. (2012, March-April). Substrato neurobiologico della terapia con EMDR [Neurobiological correlates of EMDR therapy]. Rivista di Psichiatria, 47(Supplement 1), 16S-18S. doi:10.1708/1071.11734.

Language: Italian

Format: Journal

Abstract:
I EEG in un gruppo di dieci soggetti con grave trauma psicologico trattati con EMDR e in dieci controlli sono stati registrati sia durante l'ascolto del racconto autobiografico del trauma indice (script) e nel corso di una intera sessione EMDR. Gli EEG sono stati eseguiti nuovamente durante l'ultima sessione di EMDR quando i pazienti erano liberi da sintomi. Durante l'ascolto uno script di attivazione prevalente delle regioni limbiche corrispondenti alla corteccia prefrontale e orbitofrontale è stato registrato, essere spiegato come l'eccitazione emotiva durante trauma rivivere nella fase sintomatica. La diminuzione significativa di tali attivazioni durante la fase tardiva asintomatica rappresenta il correlato neurobiologico del recupero. Inoltre, l'evidenza di una significativa attivazione corticale nelle aree temporo-parieto-occipitale, durante l'ultima sessione, suggerisce uno switch del segnale elettrico dominante verso aree corticali con funzione prevalente cognitiva.

The EEGs in a group of ten subjects with major psychological trauma treated with EMDR and in ten controls have been registered both during the listening of the autobiographical narrative of the index trauma (script) and during a whole EMDR session. The EEGs have been performed again during the last EMDR session when patients were free of symptoms. During script listening a prevalent activation of the limbic regions corresponding to prefrontal and orbitofrontal cortex has been registered, being explained as the emotional arousal during trauma reliving at the symptomatic phase. The significant decrease of such activations during the late asymptomatic phase represents the neurobiological correlate of recovery. Moreover, the evidence of significant cortical activation in the parietal-temporo-occipital areas, during the last session, suggests a switch of the dominant electrical signal towards cortical areas with a prevalent cognitive function.

Keywords: Neurobiology

Accuracy Verified: Yes

90. Foreningen EMDR Sverige. (2009). Synpunkter akutstressyndrom och PTSD [EMDR Sweden Association comments acute stress syndrome and PTSD]. In Foreningen EMDR Sverige, Inkomna synpunkter, Nationella riktlinjer för depressionssjukdom och ångestsyndrom preliminär, (pp. 163-164). Denmark: Riksforeningen Psykoterapi Centrum.

Language: Swedish

Format: Newsletter

Abstract:
Föreningen EMDR Sverige vill lämna följande kommentarer till utkastet till riktlinjer avseende behandling av akut stressyndrom och posttraumatiskt stressyndrom. International Society for Traumatic Stress studies gör regelbundet sammanställningar av evidensläget [1]. Det är viktigt att beakta att psykologiska behandlingsformer i form av traumafokuserad KBT och EMDR är de viktigaste och mest effektiva behandlingar. EMDR har varit kontroversiell men är det inte längre, utan är en internationellt accepterad behandlingsmetod för PTSD. Det är fortfarande inte allmänt accepterad att ögonrörelser har betydelse, men nyligen har svensk och australisk forskning visat att ögonrörelser under EMDR har tydliga fysiologiska effekter som är meningsfulla [2, 9], dessutom har alla studier av fysiologi vid EMDR hittills samstämmande visat dessa effekter, enligt en litteratursammanställning [3]. Under senaste åren har forskning om minnesfunktion och sakkadiska ögonrörelser visat att minnessystem som till exempel episodminne (som ofta är störd vid PTSD) påverkas på ett gynnsamt sätt av ögonrörelser [4-8]. Således finns det i dag mycket som stödjer att ögonrörelser är meningsfulla även om det kan vara svårt att förstå vid första anblicken. EMDR och exponeringsbehandling är lika effektiva enligt metastudier, bland annat Cochrane och i ISTSS aktuella genomgång av effektiva behandlingsmetoder för PTSD. Referenser 1. Foa E, Keane TM, Friedman MJ & Cohen JA. 2009. Effective Treatments for PTSD Practice Guidelines from the International Society fro Traumatic Stress Studies. Guilford,New York. 2. Elofsson, U.O., et al., Physiological correlates of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Journal of anxiety disorders, 2008. 22(4): p. 622-34. 3. Söndergaard, E., Psychophysiological studies of EMDR. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 2008. 2(4): p. 282-288. 4. Stickgold, R., EMDR: A putative neurobiological mechanism of action. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2002. 58(1): p. 61-75. 5. Parker, A. and N. Dagnall, Effects of bilateral eye movements on gist based false recognition in the DRM paradigm. Brain and cognition, 2007. 63(3): p. 221-5. 6. Parker, A., S. Relph, and N. Dagnall, Effects of bilateral eye movements on the retrieval of item, associative, and contextual information. Neuropsychology, 2008. 22(1): p. 136-45.

EMDR Association of Sweden makes the following comments to Draft Guidelines for the treatment of acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies makes regular summaries of evidence-mode [1]. It is important to note that psychological treatments in the form of trauma-focused CBT and EMDR is the most important and most effective treatments. EMDR has been controversial but it is no longer, but is an internationally accepted method of treatment for PTSD. There is still no generally accepted that eye movements are important, but lately, Swedish and Australian research has shown that eye movements during EMDR has clear physiological effects that are meaningful [2, 9], Moreover, all studies of physiology at the convergence of EMDR to date shown these effects, according to a literature review [3]. In recent years, research on memory function and Sakka wash eye movements showed that memory systems, such as episodic memory (which is often is disturbed in PTSD) is affected in a favorable way of eye movements [4-8]. Thus today there are a lot of support that eye movements are meaningful although it may be difficult to understand at first glance. EMDR and exposure therapy are as effective as meta-studies, including Cochrane and in ISTSS current review of effective treatments for PTSD. References 1st Foa E, Keane TM, Friedman MJ & Cohen JA. 2009th Effective Treatments for PTSD Practice Guidelines from the International Society fro Traumatic Stress Studies. Guilford, New York. 2nd Elofsson, UO, et al., Physiological correlator of eye movement desensitization and Reprocessing. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 2008. 22 (4): p. 622-34. 3rd Sondergaard, E., Psychophysiological studies of EMDR. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 2008. 2 (4): p. 282-288. 4th Gold Stick, R., EMDR: A putative neuro Biological mechanism of action. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2002. 58 (1): p. 61-75. 5th Parker, A. and N. Dagnall, Effects of bilateral eye movements on GIST-based false recognition in the DRM paradigm. Brain and Cognition, 2007th 63 (3): p. 221-5. 6th Parker, A., S. Relph, and N. Dagnall, Effects of bilateral eye movements On the retrieval of item, associative, and contextual information. Neuro-Psychology, 2008. 22 (1): p. 136-45.

Keywords: Acute Stress Disorder ASD Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD

Accuracy Verified: Yes

91. Punamaki, R.L., & Peltonen, K. (2008). Trauma among children and adolescents: Treatments and interventions. European Trauma Bulletin, 15(2), 3-13.

Language: English

Format: Newsletter

Abstract:

Keywords: Adolescents Children

Accuracy Verified: Yes

92. Swatzyna, R. (1997). The treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder utilizing biofeedback relaxation training with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy. University of Texas, Arlington, TX. AAT 1387189.

Language: English

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
This study evaluates a protocol incorporating Biofeedback Assisted Relaxation (BAR) training with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for the treatment of PTSD. Based on Everly & Benson's strategic metatherapeutic approach for PTSD, a tactical therapeutic protocol was developed with specific attention to both neurologic and psychologic arousal factors. A single-subject design (A-B-C) was utilized for the three PTSD experimental subjects. The A phase consisted of three baseline psychophysiological assessments; the B phase consisted of four BAR training sessions; and, the C phase consisted of four sessions of EMDR therapy. The study results indicate resolution of PTSD attained by all three subjects, and psychologic and neurologic desensitization accomplished. [Author Abstract]

Keywords: BFB Biofeedback Training Posttraumatic Stress Diosrder PTSD Stressors Survivors Treatment Effectiveness

Accuracy Verified: Yes

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

Language: English

Format: Conference

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

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

Keywords: Fluoxetine Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes

94. Uram, S. (2007, September). Understanding Your Adult EMDR Clients from a Developmental perspective: How childhood brain development correlates with coping skills and vulnerabilities to trauma. Presentation at the annual mmeting of the EMDR International Association, Dallas, TX.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
This workshop presents a developmental model that is an integration of the three areas that can be utilized when formulating your understanding and treatment of your adult EMDR clients: developmental neurobiology (presented in a simple and down to earth manner), plus development of increasingly sophisticated coping and relating skills that result from the maturing brain, plus relevant traumatology. Participants should be able to then utilize this integrated developmental model to better identify key nodes, targets and interweaves for EMDR processing.

Keywords: Brain Development

Accuracy Verified: Yes

95. Friedhelm Lamprecht, F., & Steinmetz, A. (2007). Untersuchung von wirkmechanismen der EMDR- traumatherapie: Psychophysiologische veränderungen während therapiesitzungen [Investigation of mechanism of action of EMDR trauma therapy: Psycho-physiological changes during therapy sessions]. Medizinischen Hochschule, Hannover.

Language: German

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Keywords: Mechanism of Action Psychophysiological Changes

Accuracy Verified: Yes

96. Steinmetz, A. (2007). Untersuchung von wirkmechanismen der EMDR-traumatherapie psycho physiologische veränderungen während therapiesitzungen [Investigations of mechanisms of EMDR trauma therapy - Psychophysiological changes during therapy sessions]. Hanover, Germany: Medizinesche Hochschuler.

Language: German

Format: Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) ist eine prozessgeleitete psychotherapeutische Methode, die mit Erfolg u. a. für die Behandlung der Posttraumatischen Belastungsstörung (PTBS) eingesetzt wird (Maxfield 2003). 1989 konnten in einer ersten kontrollierten Studie, in der das Verfahren noch "Eye Movement Desensitization (EMD)" betitelt wurde, positive Resultate in der Behandlung der PTBS erreicht werden (Shapiro 1989a, b).

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a process-guided psychotherapeutic method that is successfully used eg for the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Maxfield 2003). 1989 could in a first controlled study in which the procedure was still "Eye Movement Desensitization (EMD) titled," positive results in the treatment of PTSD can be achieved (Shapiro 1989a, b).

Keywords: Mechanism of Action

Accuracy Verified: Yes

97. Leeds, A. M. (1999, May). Using EMDR in complex PTSD and adult attachment disorders. Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, Washington, DC.

Language: English

Format: Conference

Abstract:
"Using EMDR in Complex PTSD and Adult Attachment Disorders" was presented as a part of a symposium organized by Bessel A. van der Kolk, M.D with additional papers by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., Friedhelm Lamprecht, MD and Bessel A. van der Kolk, M.D., at the 1999 American Psychiatric Association (May 19) in Washington, DC. This talk frames the use of Resource Development and Installation in the larger historical context of ego strengthening and briefly reviews theoretical and neurobiological correlates hypothesized to be involved in the application of RDI. The case material presented is similar to that presented in 1997 and 1998 EMDRIA presentations.

Keywords: Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Complex PTSD C-PTSD RDI Resource Development and Installation Symposium

Accuracy Verified: Yes