A Mixed Methods Evaluation of EMDR for Treating Female Survivors of Sexual and Domestic Violence

Abstract

Abstract This study assessed the efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for women who experienced trauma due to sexual or domestic violence. Twenty-one adult female clients at a nonprofit agency participated in this mixed-methods study during which they completed 8 sessions of EMDR, pre and postassessments, and an in-person interview (four counselors were also interviewed). Levels of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and overall wellness were assessed through the Beck Depression Inventory-II, Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7, PTSD Checklist (PLC-5) for DSM–5, and the Outcome Questionnaire–45.2. Paired sample t tests revealed statistically significant improvement for each measure. Qualitative analysis of individual interviews with clients and counselors further corroborated these results and indicated that engaging in EMDR accelerated and enhanced the therapeutic process and client progress, decreased depression, and increased confidence and hope in clients. These results support EMDR as an effective treatment modality for survivors of sexual and domestic violence and highlight the need for its inclusion in counselor education programs.