EMDR Treatment of Past Domestic Violence: A Clinical Vignette

This case study describes the use of EMDR for a woman who met criteria for PTSD related to past domestic violence.

Article Abstract

“This case study describes the use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for a woman who met criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to past domestic violence. Outcome measures were used to assess the client’s symptoms at intake, after the third and sixth active EMDR sessions, and at 1- and 3-month follow-ups. In addition to the use of outcome measures, at 3-month follow-up the client was evaluated by a therapist who was blind to the type of treatment the client had received. Results indicated that after nine active sessions of EMDR, the client no longer met criteria for PTSD and no longer endorsed symptoms of depression or intrusive thoughts. Thus, EMDR was successful in treating PTSD symptoms associated with past domestic violence, and effects were maintained at 3-month follow-up.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Phillips, K. M., Freund, B., Fordiani, J., Kuhn, R., & Ironson, G. (2009). EMDR Treatment of Past Domestic Violence: A Clinical Vignette. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 3(3), 192–197. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.3.3.192

About the Journal

Journal of EMDR Practice and Research (JEMDR) is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about EMDR therapy. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR therapy and its application to clinical practice. JEMDR is the official publication of the EMDR International Association.