BEYOND POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD): STATE OF THE ART ON PSYCHOLOGICAL DISORDERS IN WHICH EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING (EMDR) CURRENTLY SHOWS CLINICAL EFFICACY.

Abstract

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was originally developed as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but its applications have expanded significantly in recent years. This narrative review explores the current state of evidence for EMDR's clinical efficacy across a spectrum of psychological disorders beyond PTSD. We examine findings from randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses - including the comprehensive systematic review by Scelles and Bulnes (2021) - that assess EMDR's impact on anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), somatic symptom disorders, pain, addiction, and personality disorders. While the mechanism of action remains debated, empirical evidence suggests EMDR can yield outcomes comparable to or superior to established psychotherapies in certain contexts. A critical discussion is offered regarding the methodological limitations in existing studies and the importance of integrating EMDR within broader evidence-based treatment frameworks.