EMDR therapy for traumatized patients with psychosis

EMDR is a valuable intervention in the treatment of various mental disorders, especially if symptoms are associated with negative life experiences. In this chapter, the authors describe possible interactions between trauma and psychosis and offer several methods for conceptualizing a case to facilitate the application of EMDR in the treatment of people with psychosis. Clinical experiences, exploratory studies, and emerging scientific proof of effectiveness are promising and defy the long-standing belief that psychosis is a contraindication for trauma treatment. On the other hand, it should also be clear that EMDR alone is usually not comprehensive enough to treat psychotic disorders, so a combination of effective therapies is advocated. Moreover, we stress the importance of therapist competence. EMDR in the treatment of patients with psychosis should be delivered by well-trained therapists who are familiar with psychosis and cognitive behavioral treatment of psychotic symptoms, and who collaborate in multidisciplinary treatment teams.