Summer 2026 ETQ – exploring EMDR’s ongoing development through research, inclusion, supervision and reflective practice
01 August, 2026
Note from the editor
This edition explores EMDR’s ongoing development through research, inclusion, supervision and reflective practice. Features examine adaptations for diverse populations, evidence across clinical presentations, veteran-focused research, and professional development. Updates from specialist groups, conference insights and a revised advertising policy emphasise accessibility, collaboration and continued growth within the EMDR community.
Learning Disabilities Special Interest Group
The inaugural Learning Disability EMDR SIG meeting took place in May and brought together colleagues with a range of clinical and EMDR experience, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere. Members heard an inspiring example of successful EMDR processing using the standard protocol, supported by a person-centred explanation of the AIP model described as a “librarian […]
Update from the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee
The latest update from the EDI committee includes details about current committee members, a multimedia approach to having a voice, extraordinary stories, bursary and awareness days.
Scientific and Research Committee (SRC) update – July 2026
Scientific and Research Committee update on research priorities, the annual conference and new research.
EMDR Publications Database
A selected summary of recent research added to the EMDR Publications Database
EMDR in military/veteran populations with combat-related PTSD
This research briefing describes current evidence about EMDR for combat related PTSD.
Practice observation and developing skills “PODS” in EMDR: a service evaluation
A structured EMDR PODS programme improved practitioners’ confidence and competence by offering safe skills practice, feedback and peer support. Participants showed gains across all protocol phases, allowing supervision to focus more on case discussion. Despite a small sample, PODS appears a valuable supplement to formal EMDR supervision.
The zen of EMDR: where AIP meets body, mind and spirit
EMDR is framed as a compassionate, presence-based journey of self-enlightenment, helping individuals process trauma by fostering noticing, self-compassion and awareness. Rather than avoiding pain, clients learn to tolerate and transform it, reconnecting with themselves and reshaping negative beliefs through gentle, embodied engagement with their inner experiences.
Enhancing EMDR with bone‑conduction bilateral stimulation: a case study in an NHS talking therapies service
A case study evaluates EMDR enhanced with bone‑conduction bilateral stimulation for a patient with PTSD. Across eight sessions, symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety and impairment markedly improved, with remission of nightmares, better sleep and return to duties. Findings suggest feasibility and theoretical coherence, warranting controlled comparisons with other stimulation modalities.
EMDR UK annual conference: EMDR and the family system
Jennifer Lonsdale reports on a workshop at the annual conference, highlighting how integrating family therapy principles with EMDR can enrich practice. The session emphasised combining individual and systemic approaches, demonstrating how working with both clients and their families strengthens therapeutic outcomes and supports more holistic, effective care.
Holding the frame: preventing model drift in EMDR practice in the context of expanding CPD
The proliferation of CPD options and integrative therapeutic approaches offers EMDR practitioners a rich landscape for growth. However, the increasing tendency for therapists to deviate from the standard eight-phase EMDR model, known as model drift, poses significant challenges to fidelity, effectiveness and the evidence base. This article examines why drift occurs and why it matters and proposes practical strategies for maintaining adherence to EMDR protocols while engaging with innovation.
Q&A with Katie Egan
Katie Egan is an EMDR consultant who was awarded the Dorothy Mandelstam Award at the annual Association of Continence Professionals National Conference 2026.
President’s reflection on the European Conference in Oslo
Russ reflects on the European EMDR conference in Lillestrøm, highlighting rich workshops, research, and collaboration. Key themes included integrating theory into clinical practice, strengthening international partnerships, and the need for more UK-based research to support EMDR’s effectiveness and professional standing.