Therapists’ Experiences With the Effectiveness and Feasibility of Videoconference-Based Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Abstract

Research on the effectiveness and applicability of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) via videoconference is sparse. Considering the emerging use of internet-based psychotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic, information on videoconference-based EMDR (eEMDR) would be beneficial for many therapists. In this study, 23 therapists from the EMDR-Institute in Germany provided information about their experiences with eEMDR in a questionnaire-based survey. Information on the effectiveness and the course of 102 eEMDR sessions was recorded. Results showed the potential of eEMDR as an effective and viable method. The decrease in the subjective unit of disturbance (SUD), which is an important indicator of treatment outcome, was found to be at a similar level compared to that of previous EMDR studies that were not administered in eEMDR format. The most important predictor of the SUD decrease was the type of bilateral stimulation used in eEMDR sessions. Eye movements resulted in significantly greater SUD reductions than tapping. Perceived disadvantages and impediments for the implementation of eEMDR were mainly of bureaucratic and technical concerns. In addition, about one-third of the therapists stated that some patients were not willing to engage in eEMDR. In our study, eEMDR proved to be a practically applicable therapy method and therefore, therapists can consider using eEMDR. These findings will hopefully encourage EMDR therapists and their patients to use eEMDR due to its effectiveness and viability as an online treatment approach.

Provision of online eye movement and desensitisation therapy (EMDR) for people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): a multi-method service evaluation

“…Overall, most therapists and clients in our evaluation said that online EMDR was a safe and effective mode of delivering therapy. A questionnaire-based survey which explored therapists’ experiences of online EMDR reported that therapists rated 91% of the online EMDR sessions as ‘good’ or ‘very good’ (Mischler et al, 2021 ). In addition, it was shown that the patient-reported subjective unit of disturbance (SUD) when recalling trauma decreased by more than 70% from the beginning to the end of the online EMDR sessions, which is similar to the SUD decrease reported in the in-person EMDR sessions (Ironson et al, 2002 ; Wilson et al, 1995 ).…”

Mental health and conflict: a pilot of an online eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) intervention for forcibly displaced Syrian women

“…A systematic review investigating the effects of online EMDR ( 28 ) found only one eligible trial showing that combined internet delivered CBT and EMDR successfully reduced self-rated and clinician-rated PTSD from baseline to follow-up ( 29 ). A handful of studies exist on the effectiveness of online EMDR, and findings show clinically meaningful reductions in PTSD, depression, and anxiety ( 30 ) and similar outcomes, based on subjective units of distress (SUDs), compared to previous EMDR studies delivered face-to-face ( 31 ).…”

Online Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

“…This is different from computerized treatment, which is delivered without a therapist. 8 Although there is currently only limited research on online EMDR therapy, surveys suggest that psychotherapists are conducting online psychotherapy with their patients, 9 , 10 especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing associations around the world have drawn up guidelines for the practice of online EMDR therapy.…”