Creator

Elizabeth Legg

Advisor

Cardona, Vilma

Advisor

O'Halloran, M. Séan

Committee Member

Wright, Stephen L.

Department

Counseling Psychology

Institution

University of Northern Colorado

Type of Resources

Text

Place of Publication

Greeley (Colo.)

Publisher

University of Northern Colorado

Date Created

8-1-2013

Genre

Thesis

Extent

477 pages

Digital Origin

Born digital

Description

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based treatment for trauma, which is primarily conducted in the context of individual therapy (Shapiro, 2001). Although it has been incorporated into couples and family therapy in recent years (e.g., Capps, 2006; Errebo & Sommers-Flanagan, 2007; Litt, 2008, 2010; Moses, 2003, 2007; Protinsky, Flemke, & Sparks, 2001; Protinsky, Sparks, & Flemke, 2001), limited research has examined its use within conjoint couples therapy and none has included interviews with couples and therapists to explore this treatment modality. The purpose of this grounded theory study was to explore the experience of clients and therapists during conjoint EMDR. Interviews were conducted with 21 participants including seven couples who participated in conjoint EMDR as well as their therapists. These interviews were analyzed using Strauss and Corbin’s (1998) grounded theory data analysis. The theory developed from the data, EMDR in Conjoint Couples Therapy: Relational Trauma Treatment Theory, provides perspectives not captured in previous research about the experience of conjoint EMDR and offers guidance about assessment and preparation procedures.

Degree type

PhD

Degree Name

Doctoral

Language

English

Local Identifiers

Legg_unco_0161D_10252

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by author.

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