ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the background, theory and expansion of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), explaining the procedures and protocols through use of the adaptive information processing model. It reviews the important role that dysfunctional memories exert on present-day experiences and the influence that repressed memories can have on a variety of clinical conditions, such as disorders arising from trauma and uncomfortable experiences. It further looks at scientific evidence of treatment effects on autobiographical memories and how these are processed before discussing how the procedures adopted in EMDR desensitise disparate memories and have a positive effect on dysfunctional behaviours. A brief overview of the transforming effects of EMDR for a number of diverse conditions is given before looking at investigations of this treatment specifically in the domains of music, sport and acting. This chapter argues that as a therapeutic treatment for anxiety-based conditions this innovative treatment addresses the underlying root cause of the problem as well as the presenting symptoms and offers positive healing rapidly in comparison with other trauma therapies. However it suggests that as a relatively new psychotherapy it needs continuous rigorous investigation, both empirically and in laboratory studies, so that credence can be given to what appears to be an effective and fast-acting therapy.
