Is EMDR recognized as an effective treatment?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that has been recognized and endorsed by several major organizations. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, it's important to know that EMDR may be a helpful option for you.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends EMDR as a treatment option for adults with PTSD, as it is based on the idea that bilateral stimulation of the brain can help to reduce distress and reprocess traumatic memories. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) also recommends EMDR as a Level A treatment for PTSD, indicating that there is at least one well-designed randomized controlled trial supporting its use.
In 2013, the Australian Psychological Society (APS) released a Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Acute Stress Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, which recommended EMDR as an effective treatment option for PTSD. The guideline stated that "EMDR is a well-established treatment for PTSD and is recommended as a first-line treatment option for adult survivors of trauma." EMDR has also recently been included as a Medciare-rebated psychological treatment.
In addition, the Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health (ACPMH) also recommends EMDR as a treatment option for PTSD. The ACPMH is a government-funded organization that provides information, training, and resources related to the prevention and treatment of posttraumatic mental health problems.
If you're a veteran or are seeking treatment through the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) or Open Arms, you may be interested to know that EMDR is included as a recommended treatment option for PTSD in their Clinical Practice Guidelines. Additionally, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) recognizes EMDR as an evidence-based treatment for PTSD and recommends it as an alternative to exposure-based therapies.
In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends EMDR as a first-line treatment for adults with PTSD in their Clinical Guideline on PTSD.
It's important to note that EMDR may not be the best treatment option for everyone and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual's specific needs and circumstances. If you're interested in exploring EMDR as a treatment option for PTSD, it's recommended that you work with an accredited EMDR practitioner.
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment for PTSD that has been recognized and endorsed by several major organizations. If you're struggling with PTSD and looking for effective treatment options, EMDR may be worth considering as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.