Terapia EMDR para la esquizofrenia y otras psicosis

What is this book about?

The book "EMDR Therapy for Schizophrenia and Other Psychoses" addresses the application of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in people with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. This work is aimed at mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists and psychologists, who wish to explore new therapeutic avenues for a complex clinical population. The text provides an overview of the fundamentals of EMDR, the necessary adaptations for working with psychosis, and the essential clinical considerations for safe and effective practice.

What is EMDR therapy?

EMDR therapy is a structured psychotherapeutic approach focused on processing traumatic memories. It was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has since been widely researched and applied, particularly in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The standard EMDR protocol includes eight phases: patient history, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. The therapy involves bilateral stimulation (eye movements, sounds, or tapping) while the patient recalls the traumatic event, which facilitates the reprocessing of the memory. This therapy has proven effective in reducing PTSD symptoms and has been extended to other disorders, although its application in psychosis has been a subject of debate.

EMDR in the context of psychosis

Traditionally, the application of EMDR in patients with psychosis has been controversial due to concerns that emotional stimulation could exacerbate psychotic symptoms. However, in recent decades, several studies have shown that, with appropriate adaptations, EMDR can be safe and effective in treating trauma-related symptoms in people with psychosis. The key lies in careful assessment, prior stabilization, and modification of certain elements of the standard protocol, such as session duration, management of dissociation, and the inclusion of grounding techniques. It is important to note that current evidence, although promising, is still limited and more research is needed to establish definitive guidelines. Nevertheless, more and more clinicians consider EMDR a valid option within a multidisciplinary approach for patients with psychosis who have a history of trauma.

What information does this book provide?

This work brings together current knowledge on the use of EMDR in psychosis, offering a synthesis of available evidence and practical guidance. Topics covered include patient suitability assessment, adaptation of protocol phases, management of psychotic symptoms during therapy, and integration with other treatments, including pharmacotherapy and other psychotherapies. The book is designed to be accessible to both experienced EMDR clinicians and those new to this modality, providing a solid foundation for understanding the opportunities and challenges of this approach. In addition, ethical and safety aspects are discussed, as well as the importance of clinical supervision. Although not an exhaustive treatment manual, it offers clear guidance for those wishing to incorporate EMDR into their practice with psychotic patients.

Target audience

• Psychiatrists and clinical psychologists interested in expanding their therapeutic skills and offering evidence-based options to their patients.
• Psychiatry and psychology residents seeking an updated introduction to emerging therapies for psychosis.
• Experienced EMDR therapists who wish to specialize in complex populations and expand their field of action.
• Health science students who want