Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy in Pediatric Clients with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Reveiw

Abstract

Objectives: To review the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) in decreasing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms in children. Methods: Literature was gathered using the databases PubMed and CINAHL that assessed the use of EMDR therapy on children with PTSD. Results: All sources showed a decrease in PTSD symptoms after completing EMDR therapy sessions. However, in most of the reports, EMDR therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy did not significantly differ in the reduction of PTSD symptoms. Conclusion: Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy shows promising results in decreasing PTSD symptoms, comparable to those of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Although the difference in the results of both therapeutic interventions is not significant, both treatments should continue to be researched in order to provide clarity about which intervention might be more effective in various populations.