The presentation centers on the application of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of chronic depression, also known as Persistent Depressive Disorder. This enduring form of depression affects approximately 20% of individuals diagnosed with depression and is associated with more severe challenges in various aspects of life, including interpersonal relationships, overall quality of life, increased risk of suicide, and greater economic burdens.

Recommendations for adapting EMDR treatment for these patients are grounded in research that identifies key differences between those who develop chronic depression and those who experience more common forms of major depression. Notable distinctions include the chronic nature of their condition, the types of adverse experiences they endure, their interpersonal relationship styles, and the ways in which emotions influence their thought processes.

In addition to EMDR, the workshop will summarize other therapeutic models specifically designed to address chronic depression, including Schema Therapy, Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioural Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP). Insights from these models will be integrated to enhance EMDR therapy, particularly during phases 3, 4, and 8 of the treatment process.

Participants will be introduced to therapeutic techniques from these alternative models, with opportunities to practice these methods, thereby fostering best practices for EMDR therapy and improving outcomes for patients suffering from chronic depression.

• Recognise how chronic depression differs from major depression and what this means for EMDR case formulation.
• Explore practical ways to adapt EMDR therapy for clients with long-term depression, focusing on key treatment phases.
• Draw on ideas from Schema Therapy, RO-DBT, and CBASP to enrich EMDR practice and improve outcomes.

Chris Lee, Ph.D., works in private practice and at the University of Western Australia. He is a certified trainer in EMDR. He has published research on personality disorders, depression, and PTSD, including three international multi-centred randomised controlled trials, two in treating complex PTSD and one treating borderline personality disorder. He has received two International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies awards and two EMDRIA awards for research excellence. EMDR Europe also awarded him the inaugural Francine Shapiro award for research excellence, and in 2024, the Jeff Young award for research excellence by the International Society of Schema Therapists.