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Practice

Holding the frame: preventing model drift in EMDR practice in the context of expanding CPD

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The proliferation of CPD options and integrative therapeutic approaches offers EMDR practitioners a rich landscape for growth. However, the increasing tendency for therapists to deviate from the standard eight-phase EMDR model, known as model drift, poses significant challenges to fidelity, effectiveness and the evidence base. This article examines why drift occurs and why it matters and proposes practical strategies for maintaining adherence to EMDR protocols while engaging with innovation.

Quick reads

News

Note from the editor

This edition explores EMDR’s ongoing development through research, inclusion, supervision and reflective practice. Features examine adaptations for diverse populations, evidence across clinical presentations, veteran-focused research, and professional development. Updates from specialist groups, conference insights and a revised advertising policy emphasise accessibility, collaboration and continued growth within the EMDR community.

SIG updates

Learning Disabilities Special Interest Group

The inaugural Learning Disability EMDR SIG meeting took place in May and brought together colleagues with a range of clinical and EMDR experience, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere. Members heard an inspiring example of successful EMDR processing using the standard protocol, supported by a person-centred explanation of the AIP model described as a “librarian […]

News

Q&A with Katie Egan

Katie Egan is an EMDR consultant who was awarded the Dorothy Mandelstam Award at the annual Association of Continence Professionals National Conference 2026.

President's update

President’s reflection on the European Conference in Oslo

Russ reflects on the European EMDR conference in Lillestrøm, highlighting rich workshops, research, and collaboration. Key themes included integrating theory into clinical practice, strengthening international partnerships, and the need for more UK-based research to support EMDR’s effectiveness and professional standing.

Opinion

The zen of EMDR: where AIP meets body, mind and spirit

EMDR is framed as a compassionate, presence-based journey of self-enlightenment, helping individuals process trauma by fostering noticing, self-compassion and awareness. Rather than avoiding pain, clients learn to tolerate and transform it, reconnecting with themselves and reshaping negative beliefs through gentle, embodied engagement with their inner experiences.

Case Report

Enhancing EMDR with bone‑conduction bilateral stimulation: a case study in an NHS talking therapies service

A case study evaluates EMDR enhanced with bone‑conduction bilateral stimulation for a patient with PTSD. Across eight sessions, symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety and impairment markedly improved, with remission of nightmares, better sleep and return to duties. Findings suggest feasibility and theoretical coherence, warranting controlled comparisons with other stimulation modalities.

Features

Research News

EMDR in military/veteran populations with combat-related PTSD

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This research briefing describes current evidence about EMDR for combat related PTSD.

Service evaluation

Practice observation and developing skills “PODS” in EMDR: a service evaluation

A structured EMDR PODS programme improved practitioners’ confidence and competence by offering safe skills practice, feedback and peer support. Participants showed gains across all protocol phases, allowing supervision to focus more on case discussion. Despite a small sample, PODS appears a valuable supplement to formal EMDR supervision.

News

EMDR UK annual conference: EMDR and the family system

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Jennifer Lonsdale reports on a workshop at the annual conference, highlighting how integrating family therapy principles with EMDR can enrich practice. The session emphasised combining individual and systemic approaches, demonstrating how working with both clients and their families strengthens therapeutic outcomes and supports more holistic, effective care.

News

Q&A with Katie Egan

Katie Egan is an EMDR consultant who was awarded the Dorothy Mandelstam Award at the annual Association of Continence Professionals National Conference 2026.