05 February 2023

Misconception: EMDR is not supported by research

https://view.openforest.net/conversations/52bacd9d-01d2-5c96-a638-68d84403f999

As a psychiatrist, I've seen the power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy firsthand, and I'm excited to share that knowledge with you. In this post, I want to address a common misconception about EMDR: that it is not supported by research.

 

So, let's set the record straight: EMDR is a well-researched therapy with numerous studies demonstrating its effectiveness. In fact, EMDR has been recognized by numerous organizations and professional associations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), as an evidence-based treatment for trauma.

 

One of the earliest studies on EMDR was published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress in 1997. This study showed that EMDR was more effective than exposure therapy, a well-established treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in reducing symptoms of PTSD. Since then, there have been numerous studies that have confirmed the efficacy of EMDR for the treatment of PTSD, as well as for a number of other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and phobias.

 

It's important to note that EMDR therapy is a complex treatment that requires specialized training and expertise. Not all therapists are trained in EMDR, and not all EMDR therapists have the same level of experience and expertise. That's why it's so important to find a qualified EMDR therapist who can help you get the most out of this treatment.

 

So, what does all of this research tell us? Well, it tells us that EMDR is a highly effective treatment that can help people overcome a wide range of mental health conditions. If you're looking for a way to work through traumatic memories, negative thoughts, or emotional distress, EMDR therapy may be the right choice for you.

 

I hope that this post has been helpful in dispelling the myth that EMDR is not supported by research. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I'm here to help!

 

Take care, and I hope you find what you're looking for on my website!

 

Michiel Bosman MD

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