EMDR IN PSYCHOSEXUAL THERAPY

Our clinical practice at the Psychosexual Service in a London Sexual Health Clinic, has increasingly observed the interrelation between sexual dysfunctions and trauma. Psychosexual difficulties seem to be the manifestation of a traumatic response to sex and sexuality. Whether this is due to sexual, relational, developmental, birth or other forms of trauma, it requires a trauma-informed approach in both psychosexual assessment and treatment. This paper will demonstrate the integration of trauma approaches, and more specifically of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Processing) in the psychosexual psychotherapy of adults with diverse gender and sexual identities and from all paths of life. Although the application of EMDR in Psychotherapy is well researched and constitutes an evidence –based practice (E.Solomon et al 2009, E. Wood & T. Ricketts, 2013) its application in psychosexual therapy has only recently been considered by clinicians such as Leigh Brown (2023) and Kimberly Keiser (2023). The paper will consider issues of technique, methodology and adaptation to individual needs as these are highlighted via vignettes from clinical practice. Additional theories, such Ego States, Somatic Trauma Therapy and Psychosexual techniques compliment EMDR in a holistic approach of trauma based psychosexual therapy. Lastly, there will be space for reflection on the limitations of the psychosexual trauma model when applied to a short-term therapy framework and the multifaceted implications especially for the assessment stage.