Work

When the mind reprocesses the night: A clinical case study on eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for idiopathic nightmare disorder

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction Nightmare Disorder (ND) is a prevalent sleep disorder linked to nocturnal and daytime impairments. Image Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) shows moderate effects, and evidence for other psychological interventions, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), remains scarce in adults with idiopathic ND (IND). Methods This case study explored EMDR therapy's potential for treating IND. Nightmare symptoms, nightmare‐related distress, and sleep quality were assessed pre‐ (T1) and post‐intervention (T2). Results Score changes were clinically meaningful and reliable within a 95% confidence interval, with T2 scores falling within the normative range. Conclusions Specialized nightmare treatment reduces functional impact and chronicity; further investigation of EMDR therapy could improve intervention.

Source: Sleep research.

DOI: 10.1002/slp2.70038

Authors: Filipa Almeida, Maria Inês Clara, Margarida Rodrigues, Ana Allen Gomes

Institutions: University of Coimbra, University College Cork

Language: English

Topic: Sleep and related disorders

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Foundation for Science and Technology