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Digital therapy has gained popularity in the mental health field because of its convenience and accessibility. One major benefit of digital therapy is its ability to address therapist shortages. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Digital therapy is an important resource for individuals with PTSD who may not have access to traditional in-person therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are two evidence-based psychotherapies that have shown efficacy in treating PTSD. This paper examines the mechanisms and clinical symptoms of PTSD as well as the principles and applications of CBT and EMDR. Additionally, the potential of digital therapy, including internet-based CBT, video conferencing-based therapy, and exposure therapy using augmented and virtual reality, is explored. This paper also discusses the engineering techniques employed in digital psychotherapy, such as emotion detection models and text analysis, for assessing patients' emotional states. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges faced in digital therapy, including regulatory issues, hardware limitations, privacy and security concerns, and effectiveness considerations. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of digital psychotherapy for PTSD treatment and highlights the opportunities and challenges in this rapidly evolving field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: Taking care of an autistic child at home can be tough for parents.They struggle to balance caring for their child and other tasks.This can affect their emotional well‐being and cause guilt and other psychological problems. What does the paper add to existing knowledge?: Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing with finger movements can reduce guilt in parents of autistic children.Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing with Elite mobile health software movements can reduce guilt in parents of autistic children.The bilateral eye stimulation method using finger movements has a more sustained impact than the Elite app's bilateral stimulation method. What are the implications for practice?: Healthcare providers are encouraged to learn Eye Movements Desensitization and Reprocessing.Healthcare providers are encouraged to use these methods to help with psychological issues in children with autism.Psychiatric nurses are encouraged to utilize this treatment approach for parents of children with autism, as well as to help alleviate feelings of guilt more broadly. Introduction: Caring for an autistic child at home can be challenging for parents, as it can make it difficult to balance their responsibilities. This imbalance can negatively affect the emotional well‐being of the caregiver and lead to feelings of guilt. While this is a known issue, there may be gaps in knowledge specific to Iran. In this study, a new method was introduced to address this issue. Aim: This study aimed to examine the impact of desensitization with eye movements and reprocessing (EMDR) on reducing parental guilt among autistic children's families. We aim to examine the effectiveness of two different treatment methods. Methods: This study involved 90 parents (60 mothers, 30 fathers) of autistic children randomly assigned to either an experimental or control group. The two experimental groups received a 45‐min intervention session once a week for 3 weeks, while the control group did not receive any intervention. Data on feelings of guilt was collected using a questionnaire. After 30 days, both groups took a follow‐up test. The data were analysed using statistical software. Results: This study found that there were significant differences in guilt feelings among different groups of EMDR therapy and a control group. Specifically, no significant differences were observed in the mean guilt scores between the experimental and control groups at the pre‐intervention stage (p >.05). However, the experimental groups exhibited significantly lower mean guilt scores immediately after the intervention and 1 month later than the control group (p <.05). Immediately after the intervention and 1 month later, no significant differences were observed between the two experimental groups (p >.05). Conclusions: The findings of this study demonstrate the efficacy of desensitization treatment using eye movements and reprocessing in reducing feelings of guilt among autistic children's parents. In the follow‐up phase, it seems that the two‐way stimulation method with finger movements is more effective than Elite software in terms of the continuity of the effect. Healthcare providers are encouraged to learn and use these methods to help prevent and treat psychological issues in autistic children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The purpose of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of desensitization through eye movement and reprocessing with cognitive therapy based on mindfulness on sleep quality in individuals with Primary insomnia. The statistical population of this study included all individuals suffering from Primary insomnia who sought treatment at private psychiatric clinic and the comprehensive health service centre of the Prophet (PBUH) between December2022 and march 2023. The sample size was determined using Cohen's table, resulting in 48 participants (16 in each group), who were randomly selected and assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. The research data collection tools included the Petersburg Sleep Quality Questionnaire (1989). Mixed ANOVA analysis, post-experience tests, and version 26 of SPSS software were used for data analysis. The results indicated that desensitization treatment programs through eye movement and reprocessing, as well as cognitive therapy based on mindfulness, are effective in improving sleep quality in individuals with Primary insomnia. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the two treatments in improving the research variables. Therefore, it is recommended that therapists in the field of sleep disorders consider utilizing both treatments to address this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a multifaceted mental health condition stemming from exposure to traumatic events, characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and emotional instability. This study explores the complexities of PTSD, its symptoms, and impacts across psychological, physiological, and social dimensions. Utilizing a Library Research methodology, the study examines existing literature to identify gaps in age-specific interventions, the application of therapeutic approaches in non-clinical settings, and the role of family involvement in recovery. Effective treatments, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), are highlighted for their success in reducing PTSD symptoms and fostering resilience. Counseling emerges as a critical intervention, particularly when combined with holistic approaches that incorporate spiritual and community support. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive, multidisciplinary strategies to address PTSD’s wide-ranging effects, advocating for targeted interventions that align with developmental, contextual, and familial dynamics to enhance recovery and overall well-being.

Abstract Background Fibromyalgia (FM) is a generalized, widespread chronic pain disorder affecting 2.7% of the general population. In recent years, different studies have observed a strong association between FM and psychological trauma. Therefore, a trauma-focused psychotherapy, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), combined with a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, such as multifocal transcranial current stimulation (MtCS), could be an innovative adjunctive treatment option. This double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) analyzes if EMDR therapy is effective in the reduction of pain symptoms in FM patients, and if its potential is boosted with the addition of MtCS. Methods Ninety-six patients with FM and a history of traumatic events will be randomly allocated to the treatment as usual (TAU) condition, EMDR + active-MtCS condition, or EMDR + sham-MtCS condition. Therapists and patients will be kept blind to MtCS conditions, and raters will be kept blind to both EMDR and MtCS. All patients will be evaluated at baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up at 6 months after post-treatment. Evaluations will assess the following variables: sociodemographic data, pain, psychological trauma, sleep disturbance, anxiety and affective symptoms, wellbeing, self-care, emotional regulation, self-esteem, and cognitive functioning. Discussion This study will provide evidence of whether EMDR therapy is effective in reducing pain symptoms in FM patients, and whether the effect of EMDR can be enhanced by MtCS. Trial registration number This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on 2 August 2019, identifier: NCT04084795.

Background: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a generalized, widespread chronic pain disorder affecting 2.7% of the general population. In recent years, different studies have observed a strong association between FM and psychological trauma. Therefore, a trauma-focused psychotherapy, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), combined with a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, such as multifocal transcranial current stimulation (MtCS), could be an innovative adjunctive treatment option. This double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) analyzes if EMDR therapy is effective in the reduction of pain symptoms in FM patients, and if its potential is boosted with the addition of MtCS. Methods: Ninety-six patients with FM and a history of traumatic events will be randomly allocated to the treatment as usual (TAU) condition, EMDR + active-MtCS condition, or EMDR + sham-MtCS condition. Therapists and patients will be kept blind to MtCS conditions, and raters will be kept blind to both EMDR and MtCS. All patients will be evaluated at baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up at 6 months after post-treatment. Evaluations will assess the following variables: sociodemographic data, pain, psychological trauma, sleep disturbance, anxiety and affective symptoms, wellbeing, self-care, emotional regulation, self-esteem, and cognitive functioning. Discussion: This study will provide evidence of whether EMDR therapy is effective in reducing pain symptoms in FM patients, and whether the effect of EMDR can be enhanced by MtCS. Trial registration number: This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on 2 August 2019, identifier: NCT04084795. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present case study describes the application of the eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) approach to a patient experiencing the distressing memory of an act of apparent 'maleficium.' The patient was in treatment due to somatic symptom disorder. Transcripts from the EMDR desensitization session were used to qualitatively describe both the dysfunctional stored memories associated with the apparent sorcery and the healing associations contributing to the zeroing of the alleged subjective unit of disturbance. Changes in psychometric measures of symptoms showed that the patient experienced a relevant and unexpected reduction of different clinical outcomes, with a specific notable effect on the subjective evaluation of pain. An explanation based on adaptive information processing is offered to explain this last unexpected finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing are effective treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They emphasize the processing of trauma-related memories and exposure as central components in treatment. In contrast, the metacognitive model emphasizes that PTSD is caused by a persistent negative thinking style, and the goal is to find alternative coping strategies and modify metacognitive beliefs without the use of exposure. In a quasi-experimental A-B design, patients diagnosed with PTSD received either MCT (n = 32) or TAU "treatment as usual" (n = 28) consisting of exposure-based treatments and were tested on different measures of symptoms. The results indicated that both treatments were effective and performed well on both trauma and anxiety symptoms. Recovery rates and clinical improvement were higher in the MCT condition at post-treatment. The study indicates that MCT could potentially be a viable alternative to trauma-focused treatment of PTSD. Clinical trial registration: The study is a clinical and quality audit of an ordinary routinely delivered clinical service in a specialized trauma clinic involving treatments for patients with PTSD. The trial was a preliminary stage in a larger trial of chronic PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on psychological symptoms. The study group of this research consists of 240 participants who applied to a private health center in Beyoğlu District of Istanbul Province in the 2020–2021 academic year. A total of 240 participants, 60 in the EMDR Experiment group, 60 in the control group, 60 in the CBT Experiment group, and 60 in the control group were included in the study. In order to determine the sociodemographic information of the study group in the study, the personal information form developed by the researcher was used to measure the characteristics of the study group's brief symptom inventory (SCL 90-R) study group. The study group consisted of 14 weekly sessions of 90 min each. All the results obtained from the homogeneity and normality tests performed for the brief symptom inventory and pre-test measurements of the individuals in the experimental and control groups were considered together, and it was decided that parametric tests could be used in the research and analyzes were made in the SPSS 25.00 program. As a result of the study, it was determined that there was a significant difference between the psychological symptom scores of the experimental group before and after EMDR and CBT (P < 0.001). Considering the effect size of EMDR method on psychological symptoms, Somatization Cohen's d = 0.47, Obsessive Compulsive Cohen's d = 0.54, Interpersonal Sensitivity Cohen's d = 0.77, Depression Cohen's d = 0.53, Anger, Hostility Cohen's d = 0.57, Phobic Anxiety Cohen's d = 0.78, Psychoticism Cohen's d = 0.78 and Anxiety Cohen's d = 0.95, when the effect power of the CBT method on psychological symptoms is taken into consideration, Somatization Cohen's d = 0.36, Obsessive Compulsive Cohen's d = 0.48, Interpersonal Sensitivity Cohen's d = 0.43, Depression Cohen's d = 0.42, Anger, Hostility Cohen's d = 0.42, Phobic Anxiety Cohen's d = 0.63, Psychoticism Cohen's d = 0.49 and Anxiety Cohen's d = 0.50, respectively. According to the results obtained in the study and the Cohen-d effect size, EMDR suggests that it has an advantage over CBT in reducing psychological symptoms. In this context, it is recommended to use EMDR in clinics to reduce psychological symptoms, and CBT to be used as a second therapy method or as a therapy method together. Despite these results, it was suggested that the study should be supported by different studies and repeated under all conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained attention for its potential effectiveness in treating depression beyond its initial use for PTSD. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of EMDR in treating depression and to identify the variables influencing its effectiveness. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across databases, including MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, covering studies up to January 2023. A total of 521 studies were screened, and 25 studies with 1042 participants (522 EMDR, 520 control) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The inclusion criteria involved randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EMDR to control conditions such as usual care or waitlist groups, with outcomes focused on changes in depression symptoms. Results: The results show that EMDR had a significant effect on reducing depression symptoms (Hedges' g = 0.75), with moderate heterogeneity being observed. The meta-regression indicated that the severity of depression was a significant predictor of EMDR's effectiveness, with greater effects in severe cases. Additionally, the systematic review analyzed and evaluated various theoretical models and related studies that explain how EMDR works for the treatment of depression, reporting on neurobiological models proposed in previous research. Conclusions: This study confirms that EMDR is effective in treating depression, particularly in severe cases, and highlights its potential as a non-pharmacological intervention. However, this study highlights the need for more standardized research and long-term evaluations to assess EMDR's lasting impact. Integrating EMDR into multimodal treatment plans and primary care, especially for treatment-resistant depression, could significantly improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To summarize and evaluate evidence regarding the efficacy of interventions for depressive symptoms in adults living with spinal cord injury (SCI) and comorbid major depressive disorder or significant depressive symptoms to inform the development of clinical practice guidelines. Articles published since 2013 and available in Medline, The Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, or PsycINFO. Databases were searched in June 2022 and updated November 2023. Inclusion criteria: age 18 years or older, traumatic SCI, and clinically significant depression (Population), mental health interventions including behavioral, pharmacologic, and complementary and alternative medicine (Intervention), inclusion of a control group (Comparator), with a primary outcome of depression symptom reduction (Outcome). Criteria were applied by multiple reviewers and disagreements were reconciled via unanimous decision among the entire research team. Eight articles of 2780 screened met the selection criteria. Data were extracted independently by multiple reviewers. Two reviewers independently assigned a quality score using the guidelines described by Hawker and associates and independently evaluated the risk of bias of each article using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. All studies assessed depressive symptoms during participant recruitment, screening, and/or at a baseline assessment stage. Pharmacotherapy with venlafaxine XR and several behavioral interventions appear promising, including an online mindfulness course and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy. Remote interventions may be effective in reaching individuals who are unable to travel to in-person therapy sessions. This systematic review provides valuable information for clinicians who treat individuals with SCI and comorbid major depressive disorder or significant depressive symptoms. It highlights the importance of considering a variety of interventions and individualizing treatment to meet individuals' needs and preferences. Future research should aim to identify effective interventions for treating depressive symptoms in individuals with SCI and optimal delivery methods for these interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The psychotherapy field has a long history of integration to improve treatment effectiveness. One type, assimilative integration, offers innovative opportunities to family therapy to incorporate the clinical and research contributions of different approaches. This paper contributes to the literature on integration by exploring how Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be assimilated into Attachment‐Based Family Therapy (ABFT) for youth in residential psychiatric treatment. ABFT seeks to improve attachment security to parental figures by asking adolescents and young adults to discuss attachment ruptures. This process, specially designed for patients with internalizing disorders, can provoke anxiety, particularly for a patient population that commonly has a history of trauma and adverse life experiences. EMDR is a first‐line therapy for post‐traumatic stress disorder and has the potential to be effective in treating various other mental health conditions. When patient emotional withdrawal or dysregulation due to breaches in trust between child and parent emerges in ABFT, EMDR may help desensitize associated memories and bolster the family therapy process. The authors provide an overview of both models, and a detailed case study as an example. The paper concludes with a discussion on implications, integration efforts, and limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional neurological disorder (FND) represents a broad group of motor and sensory clinical symptoms which cannot be explained by other neurological diagnoses. Dissociation is considered a key mechanism in their development and maintenance. Despite psychological therapy being the recommended choice of treatment for FND, evidence for its effectiveness is in its infancy. This study explored the dissociative profile of forty-seven patients with FND and evaluated whether individual psychological therapy improved dissociative symptoms, psychological distress and general functioning among twenty-five adults with FND. Patients completed the Multiscale Dissociation Inventory, the EuroQol five-dimensional descriptive system, the General Anxiety Disorder-7 scale and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Our sample showed high levels of disengagement, depersonalization and memory disturbance at baseline. Treatment was associated with significant improvements in general functioning, and symptoms of dissociation and anxiety. Improvements in dissociative experiences were found to be possibly due to reduction in anxiety. Improvements in depression were the strongest predictor of improvements in general functioning. Limitations and areas for further research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the specific effects of the EMDR Flash Technique on adolescents with depression. This follow-up study consists of 32 adolescents, 12–17 years of age (M = 14.34, SD = 1.56), including 7 males and 25 females. They were evaluated with Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children Present, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Children Revised Impact of Event Scale-8 (Crıes-8). These were administered at baseline, at the end of the 4th and 12th weeks of treatment. The EMDR Flash Technique which can be utilized in the preparation phase of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to reduce the intensity of highly distressing memories rapidly and relatively painlessly was applied for 12 weeks, one session per week as a free-standing intervention. Also, the EMDR Flash Technique can be effective in decreasing the rate of noncompliance and drop-outs of adolescents. The baseline means of total BDI scores decreased from 48.19 to 2.16 at the end of the 12th week of treatment. Also, the CRIES scores decreased from 31.78 to 0.44 at the end of the 12th week of treatment. In addition, the baseline means of SUD scores decreased from 9.53 to zero at the end of the 12th week of treatment. Overall, our results underscore the effectiveness of the EMDR-Flash Technique in adolescents with depression. Plain language summary: Depression is a significant mental health concern for adolescents due to its early onset and chronic nature. Depression can be observed in conjunction with PTSD, and sometimes, depressive symptoms may transform into traumatic experiences. EMDR is an 8-stage protocol that includes history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation, used to alleviate the effects of traumatic experiences. It is hypothesized that unpleasant and traumatic events are stored in a dysfunctional way, and it promotes an adaptive processing and resolution of the traumatic experience. The goal of EMDR is to achieve an adequate processing of negative experiences and to create new adaptive information. The EMDR Flash Technique (FT) is utilized in the preparation phase of EMDR to reduce the intensity of highly distressing memories rapidly and relatively painlessly. Although a few studies have shown that the FT is effective in adults, there is only one study to investigate the effectiveness of the FT in children and adolescents. This research, in determining the efficacy of the EMDR FT on adolescents with depression, particularly focused on depression symptoms and assessed the observed changes in these symptoms. It aims to evaluate the specific effects of EMDR-FT on adolescents with depression, providing a unique perspective compared to previous research that has mainly focused on broader mental health disorder indicators. It is hypothesized that EMDR-FT is an effective therapy for treating adolescents with Depression. In the present study, adolescents with depression showed significant improvements in symptom severity and their traumatic events impact levels decreased. As a result of our study, a 12-week EMDR-FT treatment was observed to be effective for adolescents with depression and in reducing and improving traumatic stress levels and depression. Our results underscore the effectiveness of the EMDR-FT in adolescents with depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment in adolescents with panic disorder (PD). This follow-up study consists of 30 adolescents with PD without agoraphobia, aged 14–17 (15.53 ±.97). They were evaluated with Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children Present, also the Panic and Agoraphobia Scale (PAS) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were administered at baseline, at the end of the 4th and 12th weeks of treatment. EMDR therapy which is an eight-phase treatment approach composed of standardized protocols and procedures was applied for 12 weeks, one session per week. The baseline mean of the total PAS score decreased from 40.06 to 13.13 at fourth week and 1.2 at the end of 12th week of treatment. In addition, BAI score decreased significantly from 33.67 to 13.83 at 4 weeks and 5.31 at the end of 12th week of treatment. Overall, our results underscore the effectiveness of EMDR in adolescents with PD. Moreover, the current study suggests that EMDR may represent an effective intervention technique for PD in adolescents to protect against relapses and to overcome a fear of future attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Psychotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder, in particular trauma-confronting psychotherapy, can be associated with increased stress. However, research on the somatic impact and psychosomatic interactions of these psychological stress reactions is lacking. We report on a 43-year old man whose central serous chorioretinopathy exacerbated upon trauma-confronting psychotherapy. Case presentation We report on a man with pre-diagnosed, asymptomatic central serous chorioretinopathy who underwent inpatient psychosomatic therapy. He disclosed a history of sexual abuse by a family member and consequently showed intrusions, flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behavior, and hyperarousal. Thus, we diagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder. After a stabilization phase, he underwent trauma-focused psychotherapy including trauma confrontation. In the course of this treatment, acute vision loss with blurred vision and image distortion of his right eye occurred. An ophthalmologic visit confirmed a relapse of a pre-diagnosed central serous chorioretinopathy. The analysis of stress biomarkers showed a decrease in testosterone levels and a noon peak in diurnal cortisol secretion, which is indicative of a stress reaction. Conclusion Central serous chorioretinopathy may exacerbate upon psychotherapeutic treatment. In this case, an exacerbation of chorioretinopathy was observed in direct relation to the therapeutic intervention. Psychotherapists and ophthalmologists should collaborate in the psychotherapeutic treatment of patients with chorioretinopathy. Our case demonstrates the need to consider the possible increased stress levels during psychotherapy and resulting physical side effects, such as exacerbation of an existing condition. It is advisable to adjust the level of generated stress particularly well in the presence of stress-inducible physical diseases. Our case is a good example of the interplay between psychological and physical stress.

Objectives: In older adults, PTSD is associated with decreased verbal learning and executive dysfunction. Therefore, feasibility of EMDR-treatment to improve cognitive performance in older adults with PTSD was examined. Additionally, we investigated pre-treatment correlation with often co-occurring risk factors for cognitive decline (sleep problems, depressive disorder, physical inactivity, childhood traumatic events). Design: Multicenter design with pre-post measurements. Setting: Psychiatric Dutch hospitals Mondriaan Mental Health Center and Altrecht. Participants: 22 treatment-seeking PTSD-outpatients (60-84 years). Intervention: Weekly one-hour EMDR session during 3, 6, or 9 months. Measurements: PTSD was assessed with Clinician-Administered PTSD-scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5). Verbal learning memory was measured with Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), interference with Stroop Colour-Word Test (SCWT) and working memory with Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Digit Span (WAIS-IV-DS). Results: A Linear mixed-model showed significant improvement on RAVLT immediate-recall (F (1, 21) = 15.928, P =.001, 95% CI -6.98-2.20), delayed-recall (F (1, 21) = 7.095, P =.015, 95% CI -2.43-.30), recognition (F (21) = 8.885, P =.007, 95% CI -1.70– -.30), and SCWT (F (1,21) = 5.504, P =.029, 95% CI 4.38-72.78) but not on WAIS-IV-DS (F (20) = -1.237, P =.230, 95% CI -3.07-.78). There was no significant influence of therapy duration and CAPS-5 pre-treatment scores. There were small-medium nonsignificant correlations between CAPS-5 and cognitive performance pre-post differences, and between most cognitive measures and sleep problems, depressive disorder, and physical inactivity. Conclusions: Cognitive functioning on memory and attention possible increased in older adults with PTSD after EMDR treatment. Further research is needed with a larger sample and a control condition to corroborate these findings and to identify the possible mediating role of modifiable risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trauma is prevalent amongst early psychosis patients and associated with adverse outcomes. Past trials of trauma-focused therapy have focused on chronic patients with psychosis/schizophrenia and comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We aimed to determine the feasibility of a large-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) of an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for psychosis (EMDRp) intervention for early psychosis service users. Methods: A single-blind RCT comparing 16 sessions of EMDRp + TAU v. TAU only was conducted. Participants completed baseline, 6-month and 12-month post-randomization assessments. EMDRp and trial assessments were delivered both in-person and remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions. Feasibility outcomes were recruitment and retention, therapy attendance/engagement, adherence to EMDRp treatment protocol, and the 'promise of efficacy' of EMDRp on relevant clinical outcomes. Results: Sixty participants (100% of the recruitment target) received TAU or EMDR + TAU. 83% completed at least one follow-up assessment, with 74% at 6-month and 70% at 12-month. 74% of EMDRp + TAU participants received at least eight therapy sessions and 97% rated therapy sessions demonstrated good treatment fidelity. At 6-month, there were signals of promise of efficacy of EMDRp + TAU v. TAU for total psychotic symptoms (PANSS), subjective recovery from psychosis, PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and general health status. Signals of efficacy at 12-month were less pronounced but remained robust for PTSD symptoms and general health status. Conclusions: The trial feasibility criteria were fully met, and EMDRp was associated with promising signals of efficacy on a range of valuable clinical outcomes. A larger-scale, multi-center trial of EMDRp is feasible and warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a highly prevalent disorder for which treatment options such as medication, diets, and hypnotherapy either have shown limited effect or relieve symptoms in only a limited subset of patients. Abdominal pain is the key criterion for the diagnosis and is deemed the most distressing IBS symptom, and the most disruptive of everyday life. A growing body of research demonstrates the effect of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) on chronic pain. EMDR is known as a safe and successful treatment for disorders in which unresolved traumatic memories play a role in the cause or maintenance of symptoms. In IBS, activated memories may increase pain through pain flashbacks and the stress generated by unresolved memories. The aim of this study is to ascertain whether applying EMDR to traumatic memories including pain memories will reduce abdominal pain in IBS patients. Methods This study is a randomized controlled trial which will be conducted at a city hospital in the Netherlands. Adult patients with considerable IBS pain (pain intensity at least 60/100 during at least 5/10 days) will be randomly assigned to either EMDR therapy or the wait list. We aim to include 34 participants. The EMDR condition comprises seven sessions, around 90 min in length delivered weekly, the first of which is a case conceptualization session. All participants will be assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3 months follow-up. The primary outcome measure is pain intensity on a Likert scale which is self-reported daily during a 2-week period. Secondary outcomes include similar daily ratings on other IBS symptoms and reported hindrance of valued activities, and also standardized questionnaires on IBS symptoms and Quality of Life. Data will be analyzed by a Linear Mixed Effects Model for repeated measures. Discussion The results are expected to gain insight into the effectiveness of EMDR treatment on abdominal pain in IBS. As there are very few effective treatment options for IBS-related abdominal pain, this study could have important implications for clinical practice. Trial registration Human ethics committee MEC-U NL71740.100.20. International Clinical Trial Registry Platform: NL8894. Prospectively registered on 28 January 2020.

Introduction: Promising preliminary evidence suggests that EMDR may reduce suicidal ideation (SI) when used to treat Major Depressive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and trauma symptoms in the context of acute mental health crises. EMDR has never been tested specifically for treating SI, and there is a lack of data regarding the safety and effectiveness of web-based, therapist-delivered EMDR in populations with known SI. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of web-based, therapist-delivered EMDR, targeting experiences associated with suicidal thinking. Secondary objectives included examining the effect of EMDR treatment on symptoms of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, emotional dysregulation, and dissociation, as well as safety and attrition. Methods: This randomized control trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID number: NCT04181047) assigned adult outpatients reporting SI to either a web-based EMDR intervention or a treatment as usual (TAU) group. TAU included primary and mental health services available within the Canadian public health system. Participants in the EMDR group received up to 12 web-based EMDR desensitization sessions, delivered twice weekly during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021-2023). The Health Research Ethics Board at the University of Alberta approved the protocol prior to initiation of data collection for this study (protocol ID number: Pro00090989). Results: Forty-two adult outpatients received either EMDR (n=20) or TAU (n=22). Participants reported a high prevalence of early onset and chronic SI, and there was a high rate of psychiatric comorbidity. In the EMDR group, median SI, depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic symptom scale scores decreased from baseline to the four month follow-up. In the TAU group, only the median SI and posttraumatic symptom scale scores decreased from baseline to four month follow up. Although sample size precludes direct comparison, there were numerically fewer adverse events and fewer dropouts in the EMDR group relative to the TAU group. Conclusion: Study results provide promising preliminary evidence that webbased EMDR may be a viable delivery approach to address SI. In this complex population, a short treatment course was associated with reductions of SI and other symptoms across multiple diagnostic categories. Further investigation is warranted to verify and extend these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: People with intellectual disabilities (ID) are at increased risk for developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Emerging evidence indicates that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is feasible and potentially effective for this group. However, communication, cognition, stress regulation, and attachment difficulties may interfere with the EMDR process. Adaptation of the EMDR protocol seems therefore required for this population. Aim: This review aims to systematically identify and categorize the difficulties in applying EMDR to people with ID and the adaptations made by therapists to overcome these challenges. Methods: A literature search was performed in May 2023. Article selection was based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and quality appraisal. Results: After screening, 13 articles remained for further review. The identified difficulties and adaptations were categorized into the three domains of adaptive functioning (i.e., conceptual, social, and practical functioning). Considerable difficulties in applying the EMDR protocol for this group were reported. The adaptations made by therapists to overcome these difficulties were highly variable. They could be divided into three main categories: adaptions in EMDR delivery (e.g., tuning to the developmental level of the client, simplifying language, decreasing pace), involvement of others (e.g., involving family or support staff during or in between sessions), and the therapeutic relationship (e.g., taking more time, supportive attitude). Discussion: The variability of the number of mentioned difficulties and adaptations per study seems to be partly related to the specific EMDR protocol that was used. In particular, when the Shapiro adult protocol was administered, relatively more detailed difficulties and adaptations were described than in publications based on derived existing versions of an EMDR protocol for children and adolescents. A probable explanation is that already embedded modifications in these protocols facilitate the needed attunement to the client's level of functioning. Practical implications: The authors of this review suggest that EMDR protocols for children and adolescents could be adapted for people with an intellectual disability. Further research should focus on the involvement of trusted others in EMDR therapy for people with ID and the therapeutic relationship from an attachment and relational-based perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study reports on four similar studies intended to explore the acceptability, safety, and efficacy of the flash technique (FT), a method of rapidly reducing the intensity of a disturbing memory or image, with minimal subjective disturbance for subjects during the process. Of the four studies, two were conducted during FT trainings in the United States, one in Australia, and one in Uganda. Methods: The studies involve pre-, post-, and follow-up repeated-measures design to determine the effectiveness of a 15-min FT intervention. A total of 654 subjects were asked to think of a disturbing memory and then participate in a structured experience of an FT. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether a brief application of an FT would be safe and effective in significantly reducing their disturbance. In each study, subjects rated their disturbing memories on a 0-to-10 scale, with zero representing no disturbance at all and 10 representing the worst they could imagine. Then, they took part in a 15-min group practicum where they were guided in a self-administering FT with no individual supervision or support. Results: In all four studies, the mean reduction in disturbance exceeded two-thirds, the results were significant (p < 0.001), and the effect size was very large. Of the 813 sessions (654 subjects) represented in these studies, only two subjects reported slight increases in disturbances, and both of these subjects reported reductions in disturbance in their second FT experiences 2 h later. At a 4-week follow-up, mean disturbance levels in all four studies indicated maintenance of benefit or slightly further reduction of mean disturbance levels. An 18-month follow-up study with a subgroup of subjects who initially reported a high level of memory-related distress found similar maintenance of gains as well as symptom reduction. Conclusion: These findings provide preliminary evidence of acceptability, safety, and efficacy of FT; therefore, further study is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on trauma treatment in people with severe intellectual disability (SID; IQ 20–35) is scarce, and controlled studies are lacking. This study examined the effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy using the storytelling method in three adults with SID and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A multiple-baseline design was used to examine the effects of the EMDR storytelling method on PTSD classification, PTSD symptoms, challenging behaviors, and dysfunctional behaviors in three adults with SID and PTSD, EMDR resulted in a significant decrease in PTSD symptoms, challenging behaviors, and most dysfunctional behaviors. None of the participants had a PTSD classification after EMDR. Findings suggest EMDR to be effective in the treatment of PTSD in adults with SID. Follow-up research with a larger sample size is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & aim: Considering the high prevalence of myocardial infarction and the presence of cognitive problems in these patients, it is necessary to carry out effective interventions to improve their cognitive function and mental processes. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of desensitization with eye movements and reprocessing on the cognitive function of patients with myocardial infarction. Methods:This clinical trial study was conducted in 1400-1401 on 60 patients with myocardial infarction in medical centers of Yasouj city. Patients were randomly divided into two control and intervention groups. Patients in the intervention group received 6 individual 60-minute EMDR sessions over 2 weeks. Patients in the control group received only routine care. Information was collected using a demographic information questionnaire before the intervention and Fulstein's cognitive function before and after the intervention in two groups. Data analysis was done by SPSS V.21.0 software and descriptive (mean, standard deviation, frequency and percentage) and inferential (multivariate covariance analysis and independent t) statistics. Results: The majority of patients were male (66.7%) and were in the age range of 51-60 years. After the implementation of EMDR, the average score of the total cognitive function and all its subscales in the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group (p

Background: Psychological trauma and adversity are known risk factors for developing suicidal ideation (SI), a marker of severe stress or psychological burden (Winkler et al. 2021). Unfortunately, established interventions for SI have limitations, are often suboptimally effective, resource-intensive, or suffer from high attrition (D' Anci et al. 2019; Steyn, Koen and Jarvis 2022). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) psychotherapy, initially designed to treat Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), has shown potential as a novel approach for SI (Fereidouni et al. 2019; Proudlock and Peris 2020). Early studies indicate that trauma-focused psychotherapies (TFP) like EMDR may be used safely and effectively with those reporting SI, potentially reducing SI over the course of treatment (Burback et al 2023). However, intense emotions evoked during treatment convey a risk for worsening or treatment-emergent SI (Larsen et al 2016). This risk may drive clinician hesitancy, exacerbating barriers to treatment access. Further, significant research gaps remain, including understanding a) patient experiences during trauma therapy, especially for populations with SI, and b) what individual and contextual factors may impact outcomes and safety, including those related to the online environment (Burback 2023). Therefore, qualitative studies are needed to explore these issues. Aims and Objectives: This qualitative study aimed to capture and explore the experiences of adult outpatients who received webbased, therapist-delivered EMDR targeting events associated with their SI. Methods: Participants were recruited from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigating web-based EMDR for adults with SI (Winkler et al. 2021). This study measured the impact of receiving web-based EMDR on the severity of SI and symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, and emotional regulation. This "real-world" study included a broad range of patients, but excluded those with psychosis, mania, or dissociative disorders. Participants from the EMDR treatment group were invited to engage in this qualitative study, and were interviewed individually via Zoom, using a semi-structured approach (Biddle et al. 2012). Data collection and initial coding were conducted at arms-length from RCT study investigators. Braun and Clarke' s framework for qualitative thematic analysis was used to guide inductive analysis; no pre-existing coding frame was imposed on the data (Braun &Clarke 2012). Results: Twenty RCT participants were enrolled in the EMDR treatment group, and 14 agreed to be interviewed. Preliminary analysis indicated data saturation and therefore adequate sample size. Participants reported, generally positively, on treatment efficacy, accessibility, safety, and recommendations for future improvement. Data analysis is currently ongoing and final results will be forthcoming. Discussion and Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study exploring patient experiences of trauma therapy that focused specifically on experiences associated with their suicidal ideation, rather than a psychiatric diagnosis. If confirmed, positive results could indicate a new transdiagnostic method for addressing suicidal ideation. This is also amongst the first studies reporting on web-based EMDR, which could improve access to care. Larger trials, including those with more severe dissociative symptoms, are needed to further explore the impact of such treatment for SI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionPromising preliminary evidence suggests that EMDR may reduce suicidal ideation (SI) when used to treat Major Depressive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and trauma symptoms in the context of acute mental health crises. EMDR has never been tested specifically for treating SI, and there is a lack of data regarding the safety and effectiveness of web-based, therapist-delivered EMDR in populations with known SI. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of web-based, therapist-delivered EMDR, targeting experiences associated with suicidal thinking. Secondary objectives included examining the effect of EMDR treatment on symptoms of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, emotional dysregulation, and dissociation, as well as safety and attrition.MethodsThis randomized control trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID number: NCT04181047) assigned adult outpatients reporting SI to either a web-based EMDR intervention or a treatment as usual (TAU) group. TAU included primary and mental health services available within the Canadian public health system. Participants in the EMDR group received up to 12 web-based EMDR desensitization sessions, delivered twice weekly during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021-2023). The Health Research Ethics Board at the University of Alberta approved the protocol prior to initiation of data collection for this study (protocol ID number: Pro00090989).ResultsForty-two adult outpatients received either EMDR (n=20) or TAU (n=22). Participants reported a high prevalence of early onset and chronic SI, and there was a high rate of psychiatric comorbidity. In the EMDR group, median SI, depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic symptom scale scores decreased from baseline to the four month follow-up. In the TAU group, only the median SI and posttraumatic symptom scale scores decreased from baseline to four month follow up. Although sample size precludes direct comparison, there were numerically fewer adverse events and fewer dropouts in the EMDR group relative to the TAU group.ConclusionStudy results provide promising preliminary evidence that web-based EMDR may be a viable delivery approach to address SI. In this complex population, a short treatment course was associated with reductions of SI and other symptoms across multiple diagnostic categories. Further investigation is warranted to verify and extend these results.Clinical Trial Registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04181047?id=NCT04181047&rank=1, identifier NCT04181047

ObjectivesThis study reports on four similar studies intended to explore the acceptability, safety, and efficacy of the flash technique (FT), a method of rapidly reducing the intensity of a disturbing memory or image, with minimal subjective disturbance for subjects during the process. Of the four studies, two were conducted during FT trainings in the United States, one in Australia, and one in Uganda.MethodsThe studies involve pre-, post-, and follow-up repeated-measures design to determine the effectiveness of a 15-min FT intervention. A total of 654 subjects were asked to think of a disturbing memory and then participate in a structured experience of an FT. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether a brief application of an FT would be safe and effective in significantly reducing their disturbance. In each study, subjects rated their disturbing memories on a 0-to-10 scale, with zero representing no disturbance at all and 10 representing the worst they could imagine. Then, they took part in a 15-min group practicum where they were guided in a self-administering FT with no individual supervision or support.ResultsIn all four studies, the mean reduction in disturbance exceeded two-thirds, the results were significant (p

IntroductionPeople with intellectual disabilities (ID) are at increased risk for developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Emerging evidence indicates that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is feasible and potentially effective for this group. However, communication, cognition, stress regulation, and attachment difficulties may interfere with the EMDR process. Adaptation of the EMDR protocol seems therefore required for this population.AimThis review aims to systematically identify and categorize the difficulties in applying EMDR to people with ID and the adaptations made by therapists to overcome these challenges.MethodsA literature search was performed in May 2023. Article selection was based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and quality appraisal.ResultsAfter screening, 13 articles remained for further review. The identified difficulties and adaptations were categorized into the three domains of adaptive functioning (i.e., conceptual, social, and practical functioning). Considerable difficulties in applying the EMDR protocol for this group were reported. The adaptations made by therapists to overcome these difficulties were highly variable. They could be divided into three main categories: adaptions in EMDR delivery (e.g., tuning to the developmental level of the client, simplifying language, decreasing pace), involvement of others (e.g., involving family or support staff during or in between sessions), and the therapeutic relationship (e.g., taking more time, supportive attitude).DiscussionThe variability of the number of mentioned difficulties and adaptations per study seems to be partly related to the specific EMDR protocol that was used. In particular, when the Shapiro adult protocol was administered, relatively more detailed difficulties and adaptations were described than in publications based on derived existing versions of an EMDR protocol for children and adolescents. A probable explanation is that already embedded modifications in these protocols facilitate the needed attunement to the client’s level of functioning.Practical implicationsThe authors of this review suggest that EMDR protocols for children and adolescents could be adapted for people with an intellectual disability. Further research should focus on the involvement of trusted others in EMDR therapy for people with ID and the therapeutic relationship from an attachment and relational-based perspective.

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a highly prevalent disorder for which treatment options such as medication, diets, and hypnotherapy either have shown limited effect or relieve symptoms in only a limited subset of patients. Abdominal pain is the key criterion for the diagnosis and is deemed the most distressing IBS symptom, and the most disruptive of everyday life. A growing body of research demonstrates the effect of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) on chronic pain. EMDR is known as a safe and successful treatment for disorders in which unresolved traumatic memories play a role in the cause or maintenance of symptoms. In IBS, activated memories may increase pain through pain flashbacks and the stress generated by unresolved memories. The aim of this study is to ascertain whether applying EMDR to traumatic memories including pain memories will reduce abdominal pain in IBS patients. Methods: This study is a randomized controlled trial which will be conducted at a city hospital in the Netherlands. Adult patients with considerable IBS pain (pain intensity at least 60/100 during at least 5/10 days) will be randomly assigned to either EMDR therapy or the wait list. We aim to include 34 participants. The EMDR condition comprises seven sessions, around 90 min in length delivered weekly, the first of which is a case conceptualization session. All participants will be assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3 months follow-up. The primary outcome measure is pain intensity on a Likert scale which is self-reported daily during a 2-week period. Secondary outcomes include similar daily ratings on other IBS symptoms and reported hindrance of valued activities, and also standardized questionnaires on IBS symptoms and Quality of Life. Data will be analyzed by a Linear Mixed Effects Model for repeated measures. Discussion: The results are expected to gain insight into the effectiveness of EMDR treatment on abdominal pain in IBS. As there are very few effective treatment options for IBS-related abdominal pain, this study could have important implications for clinical practice. Trial registration: Human ethics committee MEC-U NL71740.100.20. International Clinical Trial Registry Platform: NL8894. Prospectively registered on 28 January 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is one of the greatest problems with which cancer survivors have to deal. High levels of FCR are characterized by intrusive thoughts about cancer-related events and re-experiencing these events, avoidance of reminders of cancer, and hypervigilance, similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy focuses on these images and memories. It is effective in reducing PTSD and may be effective in reducing high levels of FCR. Objective: The aim of the present study is to investigate the effectiveness of EMDR for severe FCR in breast and colorectal cancer survivors. Method: A multiple-baseline single-case experimental design (n = 8) was used. Daily repeated measurements for FCR were taken during the baseline phase and treatment phase, post-treatment, and at the 3 month follow-up. Participants answered the Cancer Worry Scale (CWS) and the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory, Dutch version (FCRI-NL) five times, i.e. at the start and at the end of each phase (baseline, treatment, post-treatment, and follow-up). The study was prospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NL8223). Results: Visual analysis and effect size calculation by Tau-U were executed for the daily questionnaire on FCR. The weighted average Tau-U score was.63 (p <.01) for baseline versus post-treatment, indicating large change, and.53 (p <.01) between baseline and follow-up, indicating moderate change. The scores on the CWS and FCRI-NL-SF decreased significantly from baseline to follow-up. Conclusion: The results seem promising for EMDR therapy as a potentially effective treatment for FCR. Further research is recommended. Patients who experience high fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) often have intrusive memories and images about (future) cancer-related events. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can focus on these intrusions. EMDR therapy is found to be a promising therapy for patients experiencing high FCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This novel pilot study assesses if Trauma-Informed Yoga (TIY) provides a platform for promoting the preparatory and regulatory skills necessary for EMDR when treating PTSD. Nine clients completed two EMDR sessions per week for three weeks. One EMDR session was preceded by TIY. Surveys and exit interviews were administered to therapists and clients following each EMDR session. We found that practicing TIY prior to EMDR encouraged interoception, mind-body connectedness, tolerance, and relaxation, thus suggesting it is beneficial to EMDR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this retrospective service evaluation, the predictors of disengagement from trauma therapy are investigated, as previous research suggests that disengagement rates may be higher than other therapies. Clients on the posttraumatic stress disorder treatment pathway received either eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) or trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). Preexisting data from 105 cases at a National Health Service Adult Community Mental Health Team were collected, and disengagement rates were compared based on demographic therapy and Health of the Nation Outcome Scales scores to investigate the impact they have on disengagement rates. Results found a different proportion of those receiving EMDR disengaged (62.8%) than those who received TF-CBT (55.3%), though this difference was nonsignificant. There was a significant association between disengagement rates and depressed mood (77.8% in moderate to severe group vs 51.2% in no to mild group). There was also a significant association between disengagement rates and living conditions (84.0% in minor to severe group vs 53.7% in no problem group). No significant associations were found between disengagement and demographic variables (age, gender, and ethnicity) or time spent waiting for intervention. The implications of these findings and practice recommendations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Depressed adolescents with childhood trauma often present with more severe symptoms and are insensitive to drugs. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) plays a unique role in the treatment of trauma-related mental disorders. It has been gradually used in the treatment of depression and has achieved certain results recently, but there are few related studies in China. Objective To assess whether EMDR has better efficacy than sertraline in the treatment of depressed adolescents with childhood trauma using a comparative analysis, providing scientific evidence for further promoting clinical application of EMDR. Methods Sixty depressed adolescents with childhood trauma were recruited from Psychological Clinic, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University from December 2020 to February 2022, and equally randomized into a sertraline group and an EMDR group. Sertraline group received a eight-week treatment with sertraline: the dose was 50 mg/d in the first week and gradually increased to 100 mg/d in the second week, and could be increased to 200 mg/d at the end of the fourth week if the patients had negative ideas or self-injurious behavior. The EMDR group received EMDR treatment, once a week, for a total of 8 weeks. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) were used to evaluate the psychological status of the two groups before treatment, four weeks and eight weeks after treatment. Results Except for five dropouts, the remaining cases who completed the trial were finally included, including 28 in the sertraline group and 27 in the EMDR group. The treatment type and treatment duration had interactive effects on the BDI, BAI and CD-RISC scores of the two groups (P0.05). EMDR group had higher average CD-RISC score than sertraline group at four weeks after treatment (P

Abstract Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common, recurrent mental disorder and a leading cause of disability worldwide. A large part of adult MDD patients report a history of childhood trauma (CT). Patients with MDD and CT are assumed to represent a clinically and neurobiologically distinct MDD subtype with an earlier onset, unfavorable disease course, stress systems’ dysregulations and brain alterations. Currently, there is no evidence-based treatment strategy for MDD that specifically targets CT. Given the central role of trauma in MDD patients with CT, trauma-focused therapy (TFT), adjunctive to treatment as usual (TAU), may be efficacious to alleviate depressive symptoms in this patient population. Methods The RESET-psychotherapy study is a 12-week, single-blind, randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of TFT in 158 adults with moderate to severe MDD, as a ‘stand-alone’ depression diagnosis or superimposed on a persistent depressive disorder (PDD), and CT. TFT (6–10 sessions of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and/or imagery rescripting) + TAU is compared to TAU only. Assessments, including a wide range of psychological/psychiatric and biological characteristics, take place before randomization (T0), during treatment (T1), at post-treatment (T2) and at 6-month follow-up (T3). Pre-post treatment stress-related biomarkers in hair (cortisol) and blood (epigenetics and inflammation) will be assessed to better understand working mechanisms of TFT. A subgroup of 60 participants will undergo structural and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) assessments to determine pre-post treatment brain activity. The primary outcome is self-reported depression symptom severity at post-treatment, measured with the 30-item Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology – Self Report (IDS-SR). Discussion If adjunctive TFT efficaciously alleviates depressive symptoms in MDD patients with CT, this novel treatment strategy could pave the way for a more personalized and targeted MDD treatment. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, registered at 08–12-2021, number of identification: NCT05149352.

Background: Surgical anxiety and pain are common complaints of hospitalized children, which can have devastating effects on the child's recovery process.Aim: The present study was performed aimed to investigate the effect of one session of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) on anxiety and pain of hospitalized children after appendectomy.Method: This clinical trial study was performed on 46 children hospitalized in the hospital affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences from December 2019 to February 2020. The subjects aged 12 to 16 years who underwent appendectomy and were randomly placed in two groups. The trait anxiety and demographic characteristics were assessed before the surgery. Six hours after the surgery, the intervention group received one session of EMDR along with the routine treatment, and the control group only received the routine treatment. State anxiety and pain were assessed in the two groups before, immediately and one hour after the intervention. P

Sudden gains, defined as large and stable improvements in symptom severity during psychological treatment, have consistently been found to be associated with better outcomes across treatments and diagnoses. Yet, insights on coherent predictors of sudden gains and on emotional changes around sudden gains in post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are lacking. We aimed at replicating a measure of intraindividual variability as a predictor for sudden gains and testing its independence from change during treatment. Furthermore, we expected changes in emotions of guilt, shame and disgust prior to sudden gains to predict sudden gains. Data from a pre‐registered randomized controlled trial (RCT) of eye‐movement desensitization and reprocessing (emdr) and Imagery Rescripting (ImRs) for PTSD in 155 adult survivors of childhood abuse were used. Intraindividual variability of PTSD symptoms in both treatments did not predict sudden gains status and was not independent of change during treatment. In the EMDR condition, levels of shame during treatment predicted sudden gains and shame decreased shortly before a sudden gain in both treatments. Reductions in all emotions during sudden gains were significantly higher for participants with sudden gains than for comparable intervals in non‐sudden gainers. Our findings do not support the predictive validity of intraindividual variability for sudden gains. The decrease of guilt, shame and disgust during sudden gains warrants further research on their role as a mechanism of treatment change for PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment guidelines for complex presentations of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often cautious about the reprocessing of traumatic memories and recommend multicomponent treatments that are widely used in clinical practice. Yet, the role of reprocessing in these multicomponent treatments remains unknown. Using naturalistic data of 97 patients treated for PTSD, we used a linear mixed model to investigate the role of reprocessing for the outcome at discharge and at 6-month follow-up. Treatment effects were significant and large (g = 0.91–1.05). The final model showed good fit and explained 51% of the variance. There was a significant main effect of time (B = −8.1 [−11.5; −4.8], p < 0.001), as well as a reprocessing by time interaction (B = −17.2 [−30.5; −3.8], p = 0.012), indicating better outcomes with higher levels of reprocessing. Hence, maximizing the amount of reprocessing used in multicomponent treatments for PTSD may significantly enhance outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with migraine show resistance to drug treatments due to their side effects; therefore, identifying and using effective psychological interventions can be important in improving their condition. The present study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) on migraine attacks. Methods: This was a semi-experimental research with a pretest-posttest design, a followup period, and a control group. Forty-five women who had been referred to the Future Vision Clinic in Tehran, Iran, in 2019, and were diagnosed with migraine were randomly divided into 2 experimental groups and a control group (each group of 15 people). Then, the CBT was performed according to the protocol of Otis and the EMDR was performed according to the protocol of Shapiro. No intervention was applied in the control group. All participants in the study responded to the daily headache and visual analog scale (VAS) at the beginning, end, and one month after the end of the treatment. The data were analyzed by SPSS software and by multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Results: These two treatments led to a greater reduction of migraine attacks compared to the control conditions, and in the meantime, the effectiveness of EMDR was higher than CBT (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results of this research, it can be said that the effectiveness of EMDR has been higher than CBT in reducing migraine attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]