Practice
This piece presents the author’s reflections on working as a clinical psychologist using EMDR with people affected by cancer. It explores what makes cancer diagnosis and treatment uniquely challenging, highlighting the overlooked psychological impact. The author outlines what can make EMDR difficult in this context and how the approach can be adapted to support people with cancer effectively.
Note from the Editor
And finally... the Winter 2026 edition of the ETQ. Huge apologies for the delay, but I had to recover from a nasty bout of the flu before I could bring all of the articles together. Looking through the included articles, they truly highlight the rich tapestry of EMDR, from theoretical understanding to practical applications.
Note from the Editor
Welcome to the Autumn edition of EMDR Therapy Quarterly! Explore a compelling case study on EMDR for combat-related trauma in prison settings, plus applications in high secure hospitals, chronic pain, and adolescent misophonia. Research News, EDI updates, and details of the EMDR UK Annual Conference await. Join the conversation and share your insights!
News
For those who don’t yet know, EMDR UK has an Instagram page that is definitely worth following https://www.instagram.com/emdr_uk Here is an example post that I have permission to share: Planting for the planet 23 June, 2025 “In a forest of a hundred thousand trees, no two leaves are alike. And no two journeys along the […]
Opinion
Mark Brayne offers a complementary perspective on evidence based practice where he invites readers to see fidelity not primarily as a choreography of language and steps but as a fidelity to ‘mechanism.’
Practice
The paper argues that EMDR’s Adaptive Information Processing model underplays relational processes and proposes intersubjectivity as a core mechanism of change. Integrating the BPS-AIP model with ideas about attention and attachment, it frames EMDR as a mutual biopsychosocial system. A vignette shows how relational shifts restore conditions for adaptive processing and informs practice and research.
Opinion
In Part 2 of her article, Amal Wartalska uses case illustrations from her own practice to demonstrate the subtle yet powerful adaptations to the EMDR standard protocol that can lead to transformational change in clients who have racial or other socially inflicted traumas.
Research
OCD can be a challenge to treat for even the most experienced therapist. Joyce Blake shows her creativity in utilising an attachment-focused EMDR approach with three clients, that brings about profound change.
News
2 Comments
Jessica Wooliscroft reports on a workshop about EMDR and moral injury delivered by Professor Derek Farrell.
Practice
ustice‑involved UK veterans often struggle with PTSD, complex trauma and moral injury, yet avoid standard therapy due to shame, mistrust and secrecy. EMDR using the Blind‑to‑Therapist protocol lowers disclosure demands while remaining effective. This article outlines its rationale, implementation and governance within V‑SIM, offering a vignette and urging feasibility research and wider adoption.
Opinion
This report explores how generative AI, such as ChatGPT, can help clients who feel comfortable in the presence of AI, and especially the ones with complex trauma or attachment difficulties, in constructing an inner framework to support their internal world – a world often shaped by trauma, dissociation and fragmented relational experiences. Through the engagement with the AI, clients can strengthen internal organisation and emotional regulation in ways that can complement therapeutic work.
Practice
On-the-Spot EMDR, created by Amano and Toichi, is a simplified, in‑the‑moment protocol for people unable to tolerate standard EMDR. First used to ease behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, it pairs bilateral tactile stimulation with grounding to reduce distress. This article highlights the potential as a brief, stabilising intervention within and beyond EMDR therapy.
Research
This pilot study evaluated EMDR for misophonia in four adolescents. EMDR sessions targeted distressing misophonia-related memories. Mean AMISOS-R scores decreased from 16.5 pre-treatment to 10 post-treatment, suggesting symptom improvement. Findings indicate EMDR may help adolescents with misophonia, warranting larger randomised controlled trials.
Conference
Registration is open for the EMDR UK Annual Conference at Delta Hotels Bristol City Centre. The hybrid event offers 12 CPD points, a full programme of renowned speakers, and workshops on OCD, neurobiology, LGBTQ+ practice, and child trauma. In-person spaces are capped; online access available. Book early to secure your place.
Committee updates
This is the latest update from the Scientific and Research Committee.
Research News
A selected summary of recent research added to the EMDR Publications Database.
Committee updates
This is a regular update from the EDI committee. Note: They will soon be recruiting two new members!
Research News
Recent EMDR research highlights its effectiveness across diverse populations, including those with PTSD, personality disorders, postpartum trauma, dysmenorrhea, psychosis, and autism-related parental stress. Socioeconomic factors impact treatment outcomes. New RCTs and protocols expand EMDR’s scope, with promising results in military, clinical, and community settings.
Committee updates
The 2026 Annual Conference will be held in Bristol on March 20–21, featuring research updates, a keynote, and new lightning talks. Current initiatives include forming a Veterans Research Network to address evidence gaps in EMDR for military trauma, an NIHR-funded RCT on EMDR for depression, and ongoing engagement with NICE guidelines on neurological rehabilitation.
Committee updates
Recent global events have highlighted the vulnerability of marginalized communities and the ongoing need for equity and justice. The association reaffirms its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, opposing all forms of discrimination and supporting the creation of safe, respectful spaces for dialogue and healing.
We’re always looking for new authors. If you’ve seen, read or developed something in the EMDR field, we’d love to hear from you.
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