Publications by authors named "L C S Hafkemeijer"

Research has shown that the impact of traumatic events and circumstances on individuals is cumulative and potentially has a wide range of harmful consequences, including negative consequences on mental health. One such consequence is the development of a personality disorder, a persistent mental condition characterized by a pronounced pattern of difficulties in impulse control, emotional regulation, cognitive functions, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships. A wide array of studies indicates that the personal history of individuals with a personality disorder is often marked by exposure to traumatic events or other types of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

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Background: Exposure to adverse childhood events plays an important role in the development of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Emerging evidence suggests that trauma-focused therapy using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can be beneficial for patients with BPD symptoms. To date, the effects of brief, intensive EMDR treatment for this target group have not been investigated in this population.

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Objective: Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a classification within the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11) that, besides the DSM-5 symptom clusters of post-post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), includes the presence of negative self-concept, difficulties in regulating emotions and relationship skills. The purpose of the present study was to provide guidance on how to deliver Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in the context of CPTSD, based on current clinical knowledge and the latest scientific research findings.

Method: This paper describes the treatment of a 52-year-old woman with CPTSD and borderline personality disorder for which immediate trauma-focused EMDR therapy was used.

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Background: Existing recommended treatment options for personality disorders (PDs) are extensive and costly. There is emerging evidence indicating that trauma-focused treatment using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy aimed at resolving memories of individuals' adverse events can be beneficial for this target group within a relatively short time frame. The primary purpose of the present study is to determine the effectiveness of EMDR therapy versus waiting list in reducing PD symptom severity.

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