Application of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for cancer patients: A case study

Anna Trznadel; Paweł Grzybek

doi:10.1016/j.poamed.2016.11.009

2/2017 vol. 24

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CASE REPORT

Application of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for cancer patients: A case study

Anna Trznadel ¹

, Paweł Grzybek ^2,3

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1	Senior Club, Municipal Family Assistance Center in Kielce, Poland
2	Outpatient Psychological Assistance, Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
3	Institute of Pedagogy and Psychology, Faculty of Education and Arts, University of Jan Kochanowski, Kielce, Poland

CORRESPONDING AUTHOR

Anna Trznadel

Senior Club, Municipal Family Assistance Center in Kielce, Naruszewicza 23, 25-628 Kielce, Poland. Tel.: +48 666 011 198; Fax: (41) 368 50 57.

Submission date: 2016-02-02

Acceptance date: 2016-11-14

Online publication date: 2017-03-09

Publication date: 2020-03-22

Pol. Ann. Med. 2017;24(2):228–231

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poamed.2016.11.009

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References (14)

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ABSTRACT

Introduction:
The increase in cancer incidence and mortality calls for a search of effective methods to improve patient's quality of life and well-being.

Aim:
The aim of this article is to present a case study that examined the application of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for a cancer patient.

Case study:
The patient (Mrs B) was diagnosed with malignant neoplasm of the breast; and during her stay at Holycross Cancer Centre she decided to undergo EMDR therapy in order to deal with pre-existing feelings of helplessness and anxiety. She attended three 90-min sessions, all performed according to the EMDR therapy standard protocol. Furthermore, Mrs B's level of distress was measured using the distress thermometer and she filled in a problem checklist before and after the treatment. The target event, the worst image as well as positive and negative cognition were identified. Also, the validity of cognition (VOC) and subjective units of disturbance were measured before and after the therapy. Furthermore, the patient reported negative body sensations. Then, desensitization phase followed.

Results:
The results of the therapy were: significantly lower level of distress and less problems reported. The patient did not feel any negative emotions or physical sensations and her VOC increased too.

Discussion:
The results are discussed in relation to other studies and future directions for the research are suggested.

Conclusions:
This case suggests possible advantages of EMDR therapy, demonstrating an improvement in patient's well-being in a short time.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None declared.

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