Related Experiment Videos
Using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing to enhance treatment of couples
H Protinsky1, J Sparks, K Flemke
1Marriage and Family Therapy Doctoral Program, Virginia Tech, 840 University City Blvd., Suite 1 (0515), Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA. hprotins@vt.edu
Journal of Marital and Family Therapy
|April 21, 2001
Summary
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can improve couple therapy by helping partners process intense emotions. This approach enhances intimacy and connection, leading to positive relationship changes.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Family Therapy
Background:
- Couple therapy often struggles with intense emotions fueling relationship issues.
- Emotionally and experientially oriented therapies aim to address these deep-seated feelings.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a recognized clinical technique.
Observation:
- Clinical experience suggests EMDR interventions are effective in couple therapy.
- EMDR facilitates accessing, activating, tolerating, and reprocessing intense emotions.
- These emotions are often central to dysfunctional couple interactions.
Findings:
- Integrating EMDR into conjoint couple sessions aids in reprocessing negative emotions.
- This reprocessing can significantly amplify partners' feelings of intimacy.
- Increased connection and intimacy are observed outcomes.
Implications:
- EMDR-assisted couple therapy can lead to a fundamental change in problematic relationship patterns.
- The technique offers a novel approach to enhancing couple relationship effectiveness.
- Further research into EMDR's role in relationship dynamics is warranted.