Video of the month

This month’s video features Andrew M. Leeds, Ph.D. in an ONE80CENTER interview speaking on “Why is EMDR important in treating addicts?”. This is one of eight question and answer segments recorded August 17, 2012 at ONE80CENTER’s treatment center at Summitridge in Los Angeles. An unedited, rough transcript of the video is also available in the “About” tab on YouTube.

Journal Articles

Foster, S. L. (2012). Integrating positive psychology applications into the EMDR peak performance protocol. Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 213 - 217. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.04.005

Sandra L. Foster, Success at Work, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. E-mail: samrolf@btinternet.com

Abstract

Introduction
This article describes an innovative Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) protocol which applies the standard EMDR protocol, with modifications, to the reduction of performance anxiety and enhancement of skillful performance in higher functioning clients.
Objective
The intention was to compare a modified version of the standard EMDR protocol for the reduction of performance anxiety and the enhancement of performance.
Method
The method was applying the special EMDR protocol for peak performance with higher functioning clients. A further enhancement applied three empirically valid techniques drawn from the subfield of positive psychology.
Results
Published case studies suggest that this special EMDR protocol aided an experienced commercial pilot in overcoming his avoidance and returning to the flight simulator following a failed proficiency check, and assisted an executive in managing his sense of failure following a significant business setback. Athletes preparing for competition have also found the protocol assists them in managing precompetition anxiety. A further enhancement is the application of three techniques drawn from positive psychology which the empirical research in this subfield of psychology suggests can further enhance the benefits of this protocol.
Conclusion
Limitations are discussed and recommendations for future research are outlined.

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Ho, M. S. K., & Lee, C. W. (2012). Cognitive behaviour therapy versus eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for post-traumatic disorder; is it all in the homework then? Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 253 - 260. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.08.001

M. S. K. Ho, Murdoch University, School of Psychology, 90, South Street Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia. E-mail: marg.sgia@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction
Treatment of choice for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is either eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) or trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy (TFCBT).
Objective
The aim of the present meta-analysis was to determine whether there are any differences between these two treatments with respect to efficacy and efficiency in treating PTSD.
Method
We performed a comprehensive literature search using several electronic search engines as well as manual searches of other review papers. Eight original studies involving 227 participants were identified in this manner.
Results
There were no differences between EMDR and TFCBT on measures of PTSD. However, there was a significant advantage for EMDR over TFCBT in reducing depression (Hedge's g = 0.63). The analysis also indicated a difference in the prescribed homework between the treatments. Meta-regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between hours of homework and gains in depression and PTSD symptoms.
Conclusion
These findings are discussed in terms of efficacy and cost-effectiveness and the use of homework in therapy.

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Jarero, I., & Artigas, L. (2012). The EMDR integrative group treatment protocol: EMDR group treatment for early intervention following critical incidents. Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 219 - 222. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.04.004

Ignacio Jarero, Bulevar de la Luz 771, Jardines del Pedregal, Álvaro Obregón, 01900 Mexico, Mexico. E-mail: nacho@amamecrisis.com.mx

Abstract

Introduction
This paper presents an overview of the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing – Integrative Group Treatment Protocol (EMDR-IGTP) that has been used since 1998 with both children and adults in its original format or with adaptations to meet the circumstances in numerous settings around the world for thousands of survivors of natural or man-made disasters and during ongoing geopolitical crisis.
Method
The author's intention is to highlight and enlightened the reader of the existence of this protocol that combines the eight standard EMDR treatment phases with a group therapy model and an art therapy format and use the Butterfly Hug as a form of a self-administered bilateral stimulation, thus providing more extensive reach than the individual EMDR application.
Conclusion
Randomize Controlled Trial Research is suggested to establish the efficacy of this intervention.

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Makinson, R. A., & Young, J. S. (2012). Cognitive behavioral therapy and the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: Where counseling and neuroscience meet. Journal of Counseling & Development, 90(2), 131-140. doi:10.1111/j.1556-6676.2012.00017.x

Ryan A. Makinson, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road, Atlanta, GA 30329. E-mail: makinson7888@gmail.com

Full text available online.

Abstract

There is increasing evidence to support the biological basis of mental disorders. Subsequently, understanding the neurobiological context from which mental distress arises can help counselors appropriately apply cognitive behavioral therapy and other well-researched cognitive interventions. The purpose of this article is to describe the neurobiological context underlying the formation and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorders, a mental disorder frequently encountered by counselors, from a cognitive therapy framework.

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Oren, U., & Solomon, R. (2012). EMDR therapy: An overview of its development and mechanisms of action. Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 197 - 203. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.08.005

Udi Oren, EMDR Europe Association, 43, David Elazar, Raanana 43204, Israel. E-mail: udioren@emdr.co.il

Abstract

Introduction
This article examines the history and development of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), from Dr. Francine Shapiro's original discovery in 1987, to current findings and future directions for research and clinical practice.
Elements of the literature
An overview is provided of significant milestones in the evolution of EMDR over the first 20 years, including key events, research and scientific publications, and humanitarian efforts. The authors also describe the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which is the theoretical basis of the therapy; they address the question of mechanisms of action, and EMDR's specific contribution to the field of psychotherapy.
Discussion
EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy, which sees dysfunctionally stored memories as the core element of the development of psychopathology. In its view of memory, it integrates information that is sensory, cognitive, emotional and somatic in nature. The EMDR protocol looks at past events that formed the presented problem, at the present situations where the problem is experienced, and at the way, the client would like to deal with future challenges.
Conclusion
EMDR is a 25-year-old therapy that has accumulated a substantial body of research proving its efficiency, and is now part of many professional treatment guidelines. The research is pointing to its potentially large positive impact in the fields of mental and physical health.

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Pagani, M., Di Lorenzo, G., Verardo, A. R., Nicolais, G., Monaco, L., Lauretti, G., . . . Siracusano, A. (2012). Neurobiological correlates of EMDR monitoring - an EEG study. PLoS ONE, 7(9), e45753. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0045753

Marco Pagani, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Rome, Italy. Email: marco.pagani@istc.cnr.it

Full text available online.

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.
CONCLUSIONS: 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

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Pelissolo, A. (2012). Thérapies comportementales et cognitives des phobies sociales: Programmes classiques et nouvelles approches. [Cognitive behavioural therapy in social phobia: Classical programs and new approaches.]. Annales Médico-Psychologiques, 170(4), 289-292. doi:10.1016/j.amp.2012.03.009

Antoine Pelissolo, Service de psychiatrie adulte, CNRS USR 3246, hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière (AP–HP), UPMC, 47, boulevard de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France. E-mail: antoine.pelissolo@psl.ap-hop-paris.fr

Abstract

Social phobia (SP) is a prevalent and impairing condition, occurring especially in young subjects with deleterious consequences on their occupational and familial functioning. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for the treatment of SP in many studies for about 20 years. Validated components of this treatment can include psychoeducation, social skills training, in vivo exposure, video feedback, and cognitive restructuring. Other complementary methods, coming from the CBT, have been also integrated in therapeutic programs during last years. This is the case for example of specific techniques focused on fear of blushing (erythrophobia), based on the task concentration training. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy can be also interesting for the treatment of patients with past traumatic social experiences, as well as mindfulness meditation for the prevention of relapses after a CBT. Researches are conducted on the use of new technologies for web therapy or virtual reality exposure therapy. Lastly, drug facilitation of exposure therapy is a great challenge for the treatment of SP, and positive results have been recently obtained with agents like d-cycloserine or oxytocin.

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Ringel, S. (2012). An integrative model in trauma treatment - utilizing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and a relational approach with adult survivors of sexual abuse. Psychoanalytic Psychology, Advance online publication. doi:10.1037/a0030044

Shoshana Ringel, PhD, 1915 Greenberry Road, Baltimore, MD 21209. E-mail: sringel@ssw.umaryland.edu

Abstract

The aim of this article is to offer an integrative approach in the treatment of adult survivors of sexual abuse. The treatment orientation is psychodynamic and intersubjective and will draw on three conceptual models: (a) a developmental model based on current attachment research, (b) current neuroscience findings concerning traumatic memory that emphasize sensory, affective, and implicit knowing in the understanding and treatment of trauma, and (c) eye movement desensitization and reprocessing as an adjunctive technique to help access traumatic memories. The author will summarize each theoretical perspective and will provide a case illustration to demonstrate a treatment approach that incorporates all three modalities.

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Shapiro, E. (2012). EMDR and early psychological intervention following trauma. Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 241 - 251. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.09.003

Elan Shapiro, POB 187, 30095 Ramat Yishay, Israel. Email: elanshapiro@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction
This article evaluates developments in the field of early psychological intervention (EPI) after trauma in general and the place of early eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) intervention (EEI) in particular. The issues and dilemmas involved with EPI and EEI will be outlined; related research presented and the current status evaluated.
Literature and clinical findings
Reviewing the literature and drawing on findings from initial research and case studies, the rationale and contribution that EMDR therapy has to offer is discussed relative to current evidence and theory regarding post-traumatic stress syndromes and trauma memories. The relative advantages of EEI will be elaborated.
Discussion and conclusion
It is proposed that EEI, while trauma memories have not yet been integrated, may be used not only to treat acute distress but may also provide a window of opportunity in which a brief intervention, possibly on successive days, could prevent complications and strengthen resilience. Through the rapid reduction of intrusive symptoms and de-arousal response as well as by identifying potential obstructions to adaptive information processing (AIP), EMDR therapy may reduce the sensitisation and accumulation of trauma memories.

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Shapiro, F. (2012). EMDR therapy: An overview of current and future research. Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 193 - 195. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.09.005

Francine Shapiro, Mental Research Institute, 555, Middlefield Road, CA 94301, Palo Alto, United States. E-mail: fshapiro@mcn.org

Abstract

Introduction
EMDR therapy is an eight-phase treatment approach widely recognized as a frontline treatment for trauma. Research over the past decade has addressed the utility of the eye movements, mechanism of action and comparisons with other forms of therapy.
Literature and clinical findings
More than two-dozen randomized controlled trials (RCT) demonstrate the positive effects of EMDR therapy with trauma victims. Comparisons with trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) indicate comparable effects sizes. Approximately 20 additional RCT evaluated the eye movement component of EMDR in isolation, without the rest of the therapy procedures. These studies document a variety of positive effects, including a rapid decrease in distress and reduced clarity of the targeted disturbing image when compared to exposure-only conditions.
Discussion
Research findings indicate that EMDR therapy and TF-CBT are based on different mechanisms of action in that EMDR therapy does not necessitate daily homework, sustained arousal or detailed descriptions of the event, and appears to take fewer sessions. EMDR is guided by the adaptive information processing model, which posits a wide range of adverse life experiences as the basis of pathology.
Conclusions
Research is suggested to further explore mechanisms of action and address issues of efficiency and treatment differences. Rigorous research is also needed to investigate additional clinical applications.

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Solomon, R., & Rando, T. A. (2012). Treatment of grief and mourning through EMDR: Conceptual considerations and clinical guidelines. Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 231 - 239. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.09.002

Roger Solomon, Buffalo Center for Trauma and Loss, Buffalo, New York, United States. E-mail: rogermsolomon@aol.com

Abstract

Introduction
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an empirically-supported psychotherapeutic approach for treating trauma, which is also applicable to a wide range of other experientially-based clinical complaints. It is particularly useful in treating grief and mourning.
Literature findings
EMDR is guided by the Adaptive Information Processing Model (AIP), which conceptualizes the effects of traumatic experiences in terms of dysfunctional memory networks in a physiologically-based information processing system. Numerous empirical studies have demonstrated EMDR's efficacy.
Discussion
The death of a loved one can be very distressing, with memories and experiences associated with the loss becoming dysfunctionally stored and preventing access to adaptive information, including positive memories of the deceased. EMDR can be utilized to integrate these distressing experiences and facilitate the assimilation and accommodation of the loss and movement through the mourning processes.
Conclusion
Applying the eight phases of EMDR to grief and mourning can yield potent clinical results in the aftermath of loss.

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Wesselmann, D., Davidson, M., Armstrong, S., Schweitzer, C., Bruckner, D., & Potter, A. E. (2012). EMDR as a treatment for improving attachment status in adults and children. Revue Européenne De Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 223 - 230. doi:10.1016/j.erap.2012.08.008

Deborah Wesselmann, The Attachment and Trauma Center of Nebraska, 12822 Augusta Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68144, USA. E-mail: deb@atcnebraska.com

Abstract

Introduction
The purpose of the article is to examine the current literature regarding evidence for positive change in attachment status following Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and to describe how an integrative EMDR and family therapy team model was implemented to improve attachment and symptoms in a child with a history of relational loss and trauma.
Literature
The EMDR method is briefly described along with the theoretical model that guides the EMDR approach. As well, an overview of attachment theory is provided and its implication for conceptualizing symptoms related to a history of relational trauma. Finally, a literature review is provided regarding current preliminary evidence that EMDR can improve attachment status in children and adults.
Clinical findings
A case study is described in which an EMDR and family therapy integrative model improved attachment status and symptoms in a child with a history attachment trauma.
Conclusion
The case study and literature review provide preliminary evidence that EMDR may be a promising therapy in the treatment of disorders related to attachment trauma.

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