An Assessment of the Flash Version of Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing (EMDR) In Memory Distress: Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is an exposure-based psychological PTSD treatment. Although proven effective, exposure-based therapies can evoke emotional arousal, resulting in treatment dropout. Flash Technique (FT), a modification of EMDR, emphasizes indirect exposure to distressing memories by focusing on a Positive Engaging Focus (PEF). This randomized controlled trial compared FT and EMDR efficacy delivered via online videos in reducing PTSD-related symptoms, depression, and anxiety. 90 participants were randomly allocated to the experimental (FT) or control group (EMDR). The primary outcome measure was self-reported PTSD symptoms. Anxiety and depression symptoms were secondary measurements. Linear mixed model analysis did not reveal a significant between groups difference in reducing PTSD and depression symptoms at 1-month follow-up. A significant between-group difference was observed for state anxiety levels post-intervention. Findings suggest that FT is more effective in reducing state anxiety. Both online FT and EMDR videos have the potential to reduce PTSD symptoms.