Is EMDR therapy backed by science? Absolutely. EMDR is one of the most extensively researched treatments for trauma, with over 30 randomized controlled trials and recognition from major health organizations worldwide.
This guide summarizes the scientific evidence for EMDR, including key studies, meta-analyses, and official recommendations.
Official Recognition and Recommendations
World Health Organization (WHO)
In 2013, the WHO published guidelines recommending EMDR as one of only two treatments for PTSD in children, adolescents, and adults (along with trauma-focused CBT). The WHO stated:
“Trauma-focused CBT and EMDR are the only psychotherapies recommended for children, adolescents and adults with PTSD.” — WHO Guidelines on Mental Health (2013)
American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA gives EMDR a “conditional recommendation” for PTSD treatment, noting strong evidence for its effectiveness. This places EMDR among the most supported treatments for trauma.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA and Department of Defense Clinical Practice Guidelines list EMDR among “strongly recommended” treatments for PTSD in military personnel and veterans.
Other Organizations
- International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies: Recognizes EMDR as effective for PTSD
- UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE): Recommends EMDR for PTSD
- Australian Psychological Society: Lists EMDR among evidence-based treatments
- Dutch National Health Care Guidelines: First-line treatment for PTSD
Key Research Findings
Effectiveness for PTSD
The research consistently demonstrates EMDR’s effectiveness for trauma:
- 84-90% of single-trauma victims no longer met PTSD criteria after three 90-minute sessions in early studies
- 77% of combat veterans were free of PTSD after 12 sessions in VA studies
- Large effect sizes (Cohen’s d around 1.0 or higher) in most controlled trials
- Maintained effects: Improvements persist at follow-up assessments
Comparison with Other Treatments
Research comparing EMDR to other approaches shows:
- Equivalent to trauma-focused CBT: Multiple studies show similar outcomes
- Potentially faster: Some studies suggest fewer sessions needed
- Better tolerated: Lower dropout rates in some comparisons
- No homework advantage: Similar results without between-session assignments
Major Studies and Meta-Analyses
Meta-Analyses
Meta-analyses combine data from multiple studies to draw stronger conclusions:
Chen et al. (2014)
Analyzed 26 randomized controlled trials with 1,847 participants. Found EMDR significantly more effective than control conditions and equivalent to CBT.
Rodenburg et al. (2009)
Found large effects for EMDR treatment of children with PTSD, supporting its use across age groups.
Bradley et al. (2005)
Comprehensive analysis of PTSD treatments found EMDR and exposure therapy produced similar large effects, with 67% of EMDR patients losing their PTSD diagnosis.
Landmark Individual Studies
Rothbaum (1997)
Showed 90% of rape victims no longer met PTSD criteria after three EMDR sessions.
Wilson et al. (1995)
Found 84% of participants no longer met PTSD criteria after EMDR treatment, with gains maintained at 15-month follow-up.
Marcus et al. (1997)
Compared EMDR to standard care in an HMO setting. EMDR showed significantly greater improvement in fewer sessions.
van der Kolk et al. (2007)
Compared EMDR to Prozac (fluoxetine) and placebo for PTSD. EMDR showed superior results, with 75% of adult-onset trauma patients achieving complete remission (vs. none in the medication group).
How Bilateral Stimulation Works: Research Insights
Working Memory Theory
Research by van den Hout and colleagues provides strong support for the working memory hypothesis:
- Eye movements reduce vividness and emotionality of memories
- This effect occurs because eye movements tax working memory
- The memory is then reconsolidated in a less disturbing form
- Effects are specific to bilateral eye movements, not just distraction
Neuroimaging Studies
Brain imaging research has shown:
- Changes in brain activity patterns after EMDR treatment
- Decreased activation in areas associated with trauma memory
- Increased connectivity between emotional and cognitive brain regions
- Normalization of brain activity in PTSD patients
Physiological Effects
Studies have documented physical changes during EMDR:
- Decreased heart rate during eye movements
- Reduced skin conductance (indicating relaxation)
- Activation of parasympathetic nervous system
- Decreased physiological arousal when recalling trauma after treatment
Beyond PTSD: Research on Other Conditions
Anxiety Disorders
Growing evidence supports EMDR for panic disorder, phobias, and generalized anxiety, particularly when anxiety is linked to past experiences.
Depression
Studies show promise for EMDR in treating depression, especially when it’s connected to traumatic or adverse life events.
Chronic Pain
Research indicates EMDR may help reduce chronic pain, particularly when psychological factors contribute.
Addiction
Preliminary studies suggest EMDR may be beneficial as part of comprehensive addiction treatment.
Addressing Research Criticisms
”Is it just exposure?”
Critics initially suggested EMDR might work simply through exposure to traumatic memories. Research has shown:
- EMDR doesn’t require prolonged exposure to trauma
- Eye movements add specific effects beyond just recalling memories
- The brief exposures in EMDR work faster than predicted by exposure theory
”Do eye movements matter?”
Research consistently shows eye movements contribute to EMDR’s effectiveness:
- Eye movements reduce memory vividness more than eyes-fixed conditions
- Effects are consistent with working memory theory predictions
- Other bilateral stimulation forms also show effects, though eye movements are most studied
”Is the research quality good enough?”
Earlier EMDR research faced methodology criticisms, but:
- Recent studies use rigorous randomized controlled designs
- Independent researchers have replicated findings
- Multiple meta-analyses confirm effectiveness
- Major health organizations have reviewed the evidence and endorsed EMDR
Current and Future Research
Research continues to expand our understanding of EMDR:
- Mechanisms: Further clarifying how and why EMDR works
- New applications: Testing effectiveness for additional conditions
- Optimal protocols: Determining best practices for different populations
- Virtual and app-based delivery: Evaluating digital EMDR tools
- Intensive formats: Studying condensed treatment schedules
The Bottom Line
The scientific evidence for EMDR is robust and continues to grow. With recognition from the WHO, APA, VA, and numerous other organizations, EMDR has earned its place among the most well-supported treatments for trauma and PTSD.
For those seeking evidence-based trauma treatment, EMDR offers a proven option with decades of research backing its effectiveness.
Ready to experience bilateral stimulation? Try the EMDR4LIFE app for self-guided relaxation, or find a certified EMDR therapist for comprehensive treatment.