Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained traction as a non-pharmacological, evidence-based approach for treating trauma. EMDR may be particularly advantageous for pregnant individuals, offering a pathway to address unresolved trauma without introducing medication-related risks to the fetus (Shapiro, 2018). EMDR has demonstrated effectiveness in treating post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and trauma-related symptoms among
individuals with co-occurring substance use concerns (Hase et al., 2008; Perez-Dandieu & Tapia, 2014). For pregnant women, it may contribute to emotional stabilization, reduced relapse risk, and improved engagement with prenatal care (Cortizo, 2020). While EMDR holds promise for treating trauma among individuals with SUDs, its specific application to pregnant populations remains insufficiently examined. This research brief seeks to identify what is known, where gaps remain, and how the evidence may guide future research and practice regarding the use of EMDR among pregnant women with SUD.
individuals with co-occurring substance use concerns (Hase et al., 2008; Perez-Dandieu & Tapia, 2014). For pregnant women, it may contribute to emotional stabilization, reduced relapse risk, and improved engagement with prenatal care (Cortizo, 2020). While EMDR holds promise for treating trauma among individuals with SUDs, its specific application to pregnant populations remains insufficiently examined. This research brief seeks to identify what is known, where gaps remain, and how the evidence may guide future research and practice regarding the use of EMDR among pregnant women with SUD.