None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
The aim of this study is to examine the effectiveness of EMDR when it used to treat Timorese people (aged 18-65) suffering from trauma realted symptoms consistent with PTSD. Since the efficacy of EMDR for PTSD has been established, this study will examine its effectiveness in a post-conflict, developing, Eastern nation. The aim is to treat 20 Timorese individuals suffering from PTSD symptoms using a maximum of 10 EMDR sessions provided on alternate days. A second aim is to examine the underlying mechanisms of EMDR by investigating the psychophysiolgical correlates of EMDR when these tasks are used. Findings of effectiveness will be discussed with reference to the utility and cultural appropriateness of EMDR, and the underlying mechanisms will be discussed with reference to orienting response and working memory theories of how EMDR may work. Implications for clinical practice in Timor Leste and directions for future research will also be discussed.
Interventions
This is a trial with one experimental treatment condition where, following an initial assessment session in which participants are also taught basic calming techniques, each participant serves as their own 2-week wait list control then engages EMDR therapy for treatment of symptoms consistent with PTSD. The minimal calming intervention includes teaching calm breathing, safe place, and identifying coping resources. EMDR therapy will utilise eye-movements as the dual attention task during desensi
This is a trial with one experimental treatment condition where, following an initial assessment session in which participants are also taught basic calming techniques, each participant serves as their own 2-week wait list control then engages EMDR therapy for treatment of symptoms consistent with PTSD. The minimal calming intervention includes teaching calm breathing, safe place, and identifying coping resources. EMDR therapy will utilise eye-movements as the dual attention task during desensitisation of trauma memories. EMDR therapy will follow the standard EMDR protocol outlined by Shapiro (2001). EMDR therapy is administered in 60-90 minute individual sessions on alternate days with one of 2 EMDR therapists and a translator over 17 days. Participants will receive a maximum of 10 active treatment sessions. The duration of the study for any participant will conclude after a 3 month follow-up assessment following the end of therapy, resulting in a participation duration of approximately 4 months.
Sponsors
Murdoch University - School of Psychology
Study design
Allocation
Non-randomised trial
Intervention model
Single group
Primary purpose
Treatment
Masking
Blinded (masking used)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
18 Years to 65 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
(1) Exposure to traumatic events in Timor Leste. (2) The traumatic event occured at least 3 months prior to study entry. (3) Has symptoms consistent with PTSD. (4) Timorese resident. (5) Males and females. (6) Willingness to participate in the study (informed consent procedure). (7) The participant has a level of stability and support or is linked with a Timorese NGO health service.
Exclusion criteria
(1) Deaf, Blind, or a history of serious eye disease. (2) The participant is in an ongoing threatening situation. (3) Suicidal intent. (4) Problematic substance use.
Outcome results
None listed