Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures – Third Edition

About the Book

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures, Third Edition is a comprehensive professional resource that explores the theory, scientific foundations, and clinical applications of EMDR therapy. Written by Francine Shapiro, the book provides mental health professionals, researchers, and students with an in-depth understanding of this influential psychotherapy approach, particularly its role in addressing trauma and other distressing life experiences.

The book introduces the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which explains how disturbing memories and experiences can become inadequately processed and contribute to psychological difficulties. It presents the complete eight-phase EMDR treatment approach, guiding readers through client history, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. Each phase is explained through structured protocols, clinical guidance, and practical examples to support professional understanding and application.

This revised third edition incorporates developments in EMDR research, clinical practice, and theoretical understanding. It discusses the application of EMDR across a range of psychological conditions and challenging experiences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and other forms of emotional distress. Clinical case examples, session transcripts, assessment materials, and practical resources further help readers understand the therapeutic process and its implementation.

Combining scientific research with practical clinical knowledge, this book serves as an important reference for psychologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, counsellors, social workers, and other mental health practitioners. It is also a valuable educational resource for graduate students and researchers interested in trauma-informed care and contemporary psychotherapy.

With its detailed explanations and structured treatment protocols, this book offers a thorough introduction to the principles and professional practice of EMDR therapy.

About the Author – Francine Shapiro, PhD

Francine Shapiro (1948–2019) was an internationally recognized American psychologist, researcher, and the originator and developer of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Her pioneering work transformed the field of trauma-focused psychotherapy and contributed significantly to the development of evidence-based approaches for treating psychological distress and traumatic experiences.

Dr. Shapiro served as a Senior Research Fellow Emeritus at the Mental Research Institute in Palo Alto, California, and as Executive Director of the EMDR Institute in Watsonville, California. She was also the founder and President Emeritus of the Trauma Recovery/EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Programs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing disaster response, professional training, and psychological support to underserved communities worldwide.

Throughout her distinguished career, she received several prestigious honours, including the International Sigmund Freud Award for distinguished contributions to psychotherapy, the American Psychological Association's Award for Outstanding Contributions to Practice in Trauma Psychology, and the Distinguished Scientific Achievement in Psychology Award from the California Psychological Association.

Dr. Shapiro authored and co-authored more than 90 articles, book chapters, and publications on EMDR therapy. Her research, clinical contributions, and dedication to advancing trauma treatment established her as one of the most influential figures in modern psychotherapy. Her work continues to educate and guide mental health professionals, researchers, and students around the world.