EMDR, Addictions, and the Stages of Change: A Road Map for Intervention

Abstract

A growing body of literature indicates that eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can be useful in the treatment of addictions. When combined with traditional addictions treatment approaches, EMDR can enhance client stability, prevent relapse, and promote recovery. Clinical decision making about when and how to use EMDR techniques with clients who present with addictions is complicated. The purpose of this article is to explore the use of EMDR interventions with clients presenting various levels of awareness of their addiction as well as varied levels of motivation to change. The authors explore the Stages of Change and suggest appropriate pre-EMDR EMDR interventions at each stage.