A Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Study in Bipolar Traumatized Patients

A Controlled, Single-blind Pilot Study of EMDR in Bipolar, Subsyndromal Patients With Trauma

The purpose of this pilot study is whether Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), an approved psychotherapy in posttraumatic stress disorder, improves mood, functioning, quality of life, cognition and BDNF levels in subsyndromal bipolar patients with trauma.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Bipolar I or II disorder following DSM-IV criteria
• Instable, subsyndromal course defined as at evaluation baseline (HAMD > 8 < 15 and/or YMRS > 7 < 14)
• Good adherence to pharmacological treatment
• Major or minor traumatic life-events
• EMDR therapists > 3 years experience
• Able to sign informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Major affective episode in last 3 months
• Active drug abuse/dependency
• Neurological disease
• Suicidal thoughts/ideation
• Prior treatment EMDR
• DES > 25