EMDR Therapist D Trial

Overview

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced EMDR therapist to join the research team working on a large multi‑centre randomised controlled trial (RCT) led from the University of Bristol. It is funded by the NIHR Efficacy and Mechanisms Evaluation (EME) scheme. The EYE‑D trial aims to establish the efficacy of EMDR (in addition to usual GP care) compared with usual care for patients with depression in primary care.

An embedded mechanistic study will determine whether reductions in depression are mediated by key memory‑processing mechanisms and whether working memory capacity is associated with treatment response. A nested qualitative study will examine the acceptability of EMDR for depression, further explore mechanisms, and identify possible causes of differing responses. We will also estimate the cost of delivering EMDR in the NHS.

The post holder will primarily work within the context of the EYE‑D trial in collaboration with the University of Exeter and University College London. The practitioner will use the EMDR for depression (Depr End) protocol. Training in this protocol and regular expert supervision will be provided. Initial training will take place during the first two months of employment and will include two training cases, as well as training in trial protocols and procedures.
Each patient will receive a course of 12–18 sessions, delivered in person at the patient’s GP surgery, other local NHS premises, or the University, depending on room availability. Therapists will be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in delivering therapy in line with University policies.

The candidate must be an EMDR‑Europe accredited practitioner with core professional training in a psychological therapy. Experience with EMDR in a clinical setting and an ability to work within a research trial framework are essential.

The trial is led from the University of Bristol and is a multi‑centre RCT funded by the NIHR Efficacy and Mechanisms Evaluation scheme. The University of Bristol’s Medical School is a leading centre for research and teaching across population health and translational health sciences.