A randomized controlled trial comparing EMDR and CBT for obsessive–compulsive disorder. (28th July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marsden, Zoe; Lovell, Karina; Blore, David; Ali, Shehzad; Delgadillo, Jaime
• Is Part Of: Clinical psychology & psychotherapy. Volume 25:Number 1(2018)
• Page Start: e10
• Page End: e18
• Publication Date: 2017-07-28
• Subjects: CBT -- EMDR -- obsessive–compulsive disorder -- randomized controlled trial; Clinical psychology -- Periodicals; Psychotherapy -- Periodicals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2120
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1063-3995

Abstract

Abstract : Background: This study aimed to evaluate eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) as a treatment for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), by comparison to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) based on exposure and response prevention. Method: This was a pragmatic, feasibility randomized controlled trial in which 55 participants with OCD were randomized to EMDR ( n = 29) or CBT ( n = 26). The Yale‐Brown obsessive–compulsive scale was completed at baseline, after treatment and at 6 months follow‐up. Treatment completion and response rates were compared using chi‐square tests. Effect size was examined using Cohen's d and multilevel modelling. Results: Overall, 61.8% completed treatment and 30.2% attained reliable and clinically significant improvement in OCD symptoms, with no significant differences between groups ( p > .05). There were no significant differences between groups in Yale‐Brown obsessive–compulsive scale severity post‐treatment ( d = −0.24, p = .38) or at 6 months follow‐up ( d = −0.03, p = .90). Conclusions: EMDR and CBT had comparable completion rates and clinical outcomes.