EMDR in Somatization and Persistent Physical Symptoms

Abstract This chapter describes the application of EMDR therapy to somatization (now known as persistent physical symptoms) associated with or without a medical diagnosis. Highlighted is that persistent physical symptoms (PPS) are common and highly correlated with trauma, and that trauma and PPS involve overlapping physical, mental, and neurological processes. A rationale for using EMDR to treat PPS, based on the adaptive information processing model and conceptualizing PPS as unprocessed trauma is outlined. A review of EMDR as an evidence-based treatment for PPS is also provided, with suggestions for future research. EMDR treatment of a clinical case where an individual presented with PPS is then described, with emphasis on adaptive information processing (AIP) case conceptualization and variations from the standard EMDR therapy protocol that may benefit those who present with PPS and/or medically unexplained pain.