Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a recognized therapeutic approach for addressing trauma and other mental health conditions. It helps individuals process distressing memories and reduce their emotional impact. A common question about its safety concerns the possibility of seizures. This article explores the relationship between EMDR therapy and seizure activity, providing insights for those considering this treatment.
EMDR and Seizure Disorders
EMDR therapy is not known to directly cause new-onset seizures in individuals without a pre-existing condition. Scientific evidence and clinical reports do not indicate EMDR induces seizures in people who have no history of such events. It is considered a non-invasive, medication-free tool for healing. While EMDR involves recalling distressing memories and engaging in bilateral stimulation, these processes are distinct from the neurological events that characterize an epileptic seizure.
However, the therapy can evoke intense emotional and physiological responses as individuals process traumatic memories. This heightened arousal or stress response could potentially trigger a seizure in someone predisposed or with a diagnosed seizure disorder. Only a few instances of seizures during EMDR therapy have been noted, all in individuals already diagnosed with epilepsy. In some rare instances, the use of a lightbar for eye movements was identified as a possible contributing factor.
Despite these rare occurrences, research suggests that EMDR can be safely delivered to individuals with epilepsy, particularly in addressing seizure-related post-traumatic stress and anxiety. A case study involving children with epilepsy showed no increase in seizure frequency or adverse events during or after EMDR. This indicates that while caution is warranted, EMDR is not inherently contraindicated for individuals with epilepsy.
Identifying Potential Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase an individual’s susceptibility to experiencing a seizure during emotionally or physiologically intense activity, including EMDR. Individuals with a pre-existing history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders are at higher risk due to heightened neuronal excitability. Even if seizures are well-controlled, a past diagnosis warrants careful consideration.
Neurological conditions that affect brain activity or medications known to lower the seizure threshold can also contribute to this risk. The intensity and duration of bilateral stimulation used in EMDR sessions might also play a role. Rapid or overly intense stimulation could potentially overload sensory processing, leading to a seizure in susceptible individuals. Emotional arousal from processing traumatic memories can induce physiological stress responses, which might also contribute to seizure risk in vulnerable individuals.
Ensuring Safety During EMDR Therapy
To ensure safety during EMDR therapy, a comprehensive intake assessment is essential. Therapists should gather a detailed medical history, including any past or present seizure disorders, neurological conditions, or relevant medications. Clients should openly communicate any concerns or pre-existing conditions to their therapist before treatment.
For individuals with a history of epilepsy, therapists can modify EMDR protocols to minimize potential risks. This might involve using tactile stimulation (e.g., handheld buzzers) or auditory cues instead of eye movements, particularly if there is a risk of photosensitive seizures. Therapists can also adjust the intensity and pace of bilateral stimulation to suit each client’s tolerance levels, incorporating increased breaks as needed. Close monitoring of physiological responses and grounding techniques during sessions help manage emotional arousal, further mitigating potential seizure risks.