Science and Research
The AIP Model
EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. EMDR therapy is like giving your brain a cast when it's injured. Just like when you break a bone, your body works hard to heal itself, but sometimes it needs a little extra support to do its job properly. Similarly, when something bad happens, like a scary experience or painful memory, your brain may struggle to process it on its own- it gets stuck. EMDR acts like a cast, providing support and guidance to help your brain process and heal from the injury. With the right tools, techniques and guidance from an experienced counselor, your brain can heal itself, just like your body does when it’s hurt or sick.
The Neuroscience: Rewiring the Brain
Neuroscience research indicates that EMDR therapy has significant effects on the brain's functioning and structure. EMDR therapy facilitates the processing of traumatic memories, leading to changes in brain activity in regions involved in memory processing and emotion regulation. EMDR also modulates the functioning of the amygdala, reducing its hyperactivity and diminishing the emotional intensity associated with upsetting memories. Additionally, EMDR therapy promotes neuroplasticity, fostering the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections, contributing to the restructuring of neural networks associated with past experiences.
The Research Studies
Here are some key findings from research studies supporting the efficacy of EMDR therapy:
PTSD Treatment Guidelines: EMDR therapy is recognized as an effective treatment for PTSD by numerous organizations and treatment guidelines, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychiatric Association (APA), and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs): Multiple RCTs have shown that EMDR therapy is effective in reducing troublesome symptoms. Some studies have even indicated that EMDR therapy may lead to faster symptom reduction compared to CBT.
Meta-Analyses: Meta-analyses, which combine data from multiple studies, have consistently found that EMDR therapy leads to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms compared to no treatment or placebo, as well as improvements in depression, anxiety, and overall functioning.
Long-Term Effects: Research suggests that the benefits of EMDR therapy are often maintained over time, with many individuals experiencing sustained symptom relief even after completing treatment.
Diverse Populations: Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of EMDR therapy across diverse populations, including survivors of various types of trauma (e.g., combat veterans, survivors of natural disasters, victims of assault), as well as individuals with comorbid conditions such as depression and substance abuse.
Neurobiological Evidence: Neuroimaging studies have provided evidence that EMDR therapy leads to changes in brain activity associated with emotional processing, memory reconsolidation, and trauma resolution.
Real-World Settings: Research conducted in real-world clinical settings has shown that EMDR therapy can be successfully implemented by a wide range of mental health professionals and is well-received by clients.