EMDR for Depression v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A randomised controlled trial evaluating the efficacy and mechanisms of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) compared with treatment as usual for adults with depression in primary care
IRAS ID
338392
Contact name
Leonora Cotton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
CPMS 60219, NIHR RDN portfolio
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 2 months, days
Research summary
Depression is a common and disabling illness often linked to traumatic or stressful life events such as abuse, bereavement, or relationship breakdowns. These experiences can affect an individual's beliefs about themselves, which can lead to depression or make it worse. Current treatments for depression do not focus on the memories linked to these past experiences. A therapy called Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy or EMDR, which is an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, may offer a new approach.
EMDR works by helping individuals reprocess distressing memories. During therapy, patients recall the memory of a past event and the negative belief linked to it while making side-to-side eye movements, usually by following the therapist’s finger. This process is thought to reduce the emotional impact of the memory and foster more positive self-beliefs. Small studies suggest EMDR might reduce depressive symptoms, but no large, high-quality trials have been carried out.
We are planning a large study involving 380 participants to see if EMDR can help people with depression and to understand how it works. Patients will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive 12–18 EMDR sessions alongside standard GP care, and the other group will continue to see their GP as usual. People who take part will be contacted six times over a year to fill in a symptom questionnaire.
The study will be conducted through 90 GP practices linked with 3 university centres (Bristol, Exeter and London) and will involve participants from diverse backgrounds to ensure wider relevance. People with lived experience of depression are helping with the study. Findings will be shared with the public, researchers, and healthcare professionals to inform future depression care. This research is important because unresolved distressing memories may be a key factor in depression for many people.
REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/SW/0087
Date of REC Opinion
18 Sep 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion